Wike Tells Court: Scavengers, Beggars Pose Security Threat in FCT

Wike Tells Court: Scavengers, Beggars Pose Security Threat in FCT

By peterside Rejoice Eneky

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has described the increasing number of scavengers, beggars, and homeless persons in the capital as a growing security threat. In a counter-affidavit submitted to the Federal High Court in Abuja, Wike urged the court to dismiss a N500 million human rights lawsuit filed against him, arguing that the presence of such individuals endangers lives, public property, and the environment.

The suit, filed by human rights lawyer Abba Hikima on behalf of vulnerable residents, accuses Wike and several top security officials, including the Inspector-General of Police, the Director-General of the DSS, and the Attorney-General of the Federation, of violating the rights of indigent Nigerians through arbitrary arrests and maltreatment.

However, Wike, through a sworn statement by Saidu Abdulkadir of the FCT Legal Services Secretariat, maintained that begging and unauthorized trading are not recognized lawful activities. He argued that many so-called scavengers have been involved in criminal activities, including vandalism and espionage for kidnappers and terrorist groups.

He cited violations of the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB) Act, 1997, explaining that unauthorized street shelters and open defecation contribute to environmental degradation and public health hazards.

Wike further said that efforts have been made to rehabilitate and empower the vulnerable through skill acquisition programs at the FCT Vocational and Rehabilitation Centre in Bwari, but many beneficiaries have refused to transition into lawful employment.

“There is no evidence of extortion or inhumane treatment. The claimants in this suit are faceless and the allegations are based on imagination,” Wike stated.

Supporting affidavits from other respondents – including the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Attorney-General’s office – also denied any wrongdoing. The DSS emphasized its adherence to constitutional protocols and denied involvement in the alleged mass arrests on November 12, 2024.

Hikima’s originating motion, filed last November, seeks N500 million in damages and a public apology on behalf of the affected persons. He argues that their treatment violates Sections 34, 35, 41, and 42 of the 1999 Constitution, which protect human dignity, freedom of movement, and equal treatment under the law.

He recounted witnessing a joint task force round up hawkers and the homeless on Ahmadu Bello Way late at night, alleging they were verbally and physically abused before being dropped off at Eagle Square. Hikima claims to have later met three of the victims and documented their testimonies.

The lawyer blames worsening economic conditions and failed government policies for rising homelessness and poverty, insisting that the government’s crackdown targets the symptoms of failure rather than addressing the root causes.

The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1749/2024, is before Justice James Omotosho. No ruling has been issued yet.