A Non-Governmental Organisation in Nigeria, Lawyers Alert, has described the arrest and repatriation of street beggars and destitute in Abuja by Federal Capital Territory Administration Joint Task Force as unconstitutional and a violation of citizens’ rights.

Lawyers Alert in a statement was signed by its President, Barrister Rommy Mom and Focal Person for Petty Offence Work, Peace Okeshola, frowned at the arbitrary detention and repatriation of citizens living within the Abuja because they are regarded as street baggers.

The FTCA repatriated 217 destitute street beggars evacuated from the streets of Abuja. They were confined at the indigent homes until they were repatriated to their respective states of origin.

Lawyers Alert said majority of affected persons have no other means of livelihood, no home and shelter, and that they survive on the streets.

According to the statement, “Indeed, it would not be out of place to assert that some persons that were arrested by the Joint Task Force, do not in any way portray threats to the society but were found in such poor living conditions due to poverty. These incessant arrests and repatriation by the FTCA are nothing short of criminalization based on poverty status and a gross violation of citizens’ rights.

“The 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Abuja is evident as it provides that every citizen of Nigeria is entitled to move freely throughout and reside in any part of the country.

“Having recourse to the provision of the constitution, one wonders about the constitutionality or otherwise of the arrest of Citizens of Nigeria by the FCTA and their subsequent repatriation to their states of origin.

“The officials” actions in seizing goods from the beggars and destitute also constitute a violation of citizens’ rights and need to be addressed.”

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