By Muyideen Aliyu, Ilorin
The Kwara State Government has launched a rigorous enforcement campaign to eliminate street begging across the state.
This move follows the recent arrest of a suspected bandit in Igbaja, Ifelodun Local Government Area, who had been operating under the guise of a beggar.
Dr. Mariam Nnafatima Imam, the State Commissioner for Social Development, announced the intensified measures during a monitoring and enforcement exercise in the Ilorin metropolis last weekend.
She characterized the Igbaja incident as a significant security breach, highlighting how criminal elements exploit the anonymity of street begging to threaten public safety.
The Commissioner emphasized that while the state remains committed to protecting vulnerable persons through rehabilitation and empowerment, it will no longer tolerate begging being used as a cover for criminal activities.
The Ministry of Social Development warned that the crackdown, which began in the state capital, will soon extend to all Local Government Areas.
Under these new measures, individuals or groups found facilitating or engaging in street begging will face strict legal action in accordance with state laws.
Dr. Imam also issued a stern warning to parents and guardians against sending children to beg, noting that the practice exposes minors to exploitation, abuse, and recruitment by criminal syndicates.
To ensure the success of the crackdown, residents are urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious behavior to security agencies immediately.
The government further called on the public to channel their donations through approved intervention programs and credible humanitarian organizations rather than through indiscriminate almsgiving.
This initiative is part of a broader state strategy to safeguard lives and property while fostering a more orderly and socially responsible environment.
