Barrister Abba Hikima has announced a public interest lawsuit against Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), over recent policies allegedly targeting vulnerable Nigerians. Hikima argues that actions criminalizing scavenging, petty trading, and begging disproportionately affect impoverished citizens and infringe on their rights.
“These are not crimes,” Hikima stated. “The government cannot impose economic hardship on the populace while dictating standards of decency. Vulnerable Nigerians have the right to exist and express their struggles, even if it unsettles the authorities.”
The lawsuit challenges the FCT administration’s failure to provide adequate welfare and opportunities for citizens. Hikima contends that the government must either support vulnerable groups or accept their visible presence in public spaces, including the FCT.
