The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced a crackdown on beggars in Abuja, citing concerns over the security risks they pose and the negative impact on the city’s image.
Wike made this declaration during the commencement of the construction of an access road from the Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway to the Judges’ Quarters in Katampe District, Abuja, on Tuesday.
He expressed dissatisfaction with the growing number of beggars in the city, stating that Abuja is in danger of becoming a “beggars’ city.” Wike urged residents to take responsibility for their family members who beg on the streets, warning that authorities would begin removing beggars from the city starting next week.
“We have declared war on beggars because Abuja is returning to a beggar’s city. If you know you have a sister or brother who begs on the road, do something because from next week, we will take them out of the city. It is embarrassing that the first thing people see when they enter Abuja are beggars,” Wike stated.
The minister also highlighted that some of the individuals posing as beggars might be criminals. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the security of the city, explaining that beggars could be informants for criminals, which poses a threat to residents’ safety.
“We will not allow this to continue. By Monday, we will start removing them. We are fighting insecurity, and some of these beggars may be part of the problem,” he added.
Wike acknowledged that not everyone would be pleased with the decision, but stressed that the move was essential for the overall well-being of Abuja’s residents, allowing them to feel secure in their homes.