In a resolute move against street begging, the Lagos State Government, led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has launched a robust campaign to eradicate the practice across the state.
During a “Special Rescue Operations” led by Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, in collaboration with the Lagos State Task Force, at least 50 street beggars were removed from the Lekki axis.
Ogunlende stressed that street begging, especially involving infants, contradicts the cultural and religious values of the state. He highlighted its counterproductive nature, revealing that some beggars have been found engaging in criminal activities. The government had previously conducted extensive advocacy to educate the public on alternative ways to assist the less privileged, urging citizens to direct their support to designated homes or centers.
The Permanent Secretary, Pharm (Mrs) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, explained that the operation was prompted by reports of residents being harassed by street beggars. The government expressed its commitment to providing a safe environment for all Lagosians and declared a zero-tolerance policy towards street begging.
Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, CSP Shola Jejeloye, emphasized the continuous nature of the campaign against street begging. He highlighted the collaborative efforts of various agencies and the importance of enforcing laws enacted by the State House of Assembly for the collective benefit.
Simultaneously, the Lagos State House of Assembly has initiated legislative processes to outlaw street begging across the state. Speaker Mudashiru Obasa supported the move, describing street begging as a growing menace that requires urgent attention. The proposed law aims to criminalize both street begging and the act of giving money to beggars.
Obasa underscored the need for a holistic approach, proposing the establishment of a centralized center for almsgiving to ensure assistance reaches those genuinely in need. He argued that such legislation would not only curb street begging but also reduce road crimes and foster greater responsibility among residents.
In addressing related challenges, the speaker called on local government chairmen to develop strategies for managing street trading rather than outrightly removing traders from the streets, advocating for a balanced and comprehensive approach to address these societal issues.
