Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has taken a decisive stance against the growing issue of street beggars in Abuja, declaring a determined effort to address their increasing presence. He announced that these beggars will be removed from the city, emphasizing the need to restore the capital’s image.
Wike expressed serious concerns that the rise in the number of street beggars not only diminishes the aesthetic value of Abuja but also poses significant security risks to both residents and visitors. He stressed that the situation has reached a point where it can no longer be ignored.
Wike made this declaration while officiating the commencement of the construction of an access road from the Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway to Judges Quarters in Katampe District, Abuja on Tuesday. The project marks another significant development aimed at improving the city’s infrastructure, but Wike made it clear that addressing the street beggar issue was equally important.
He further stated that the situation is giving Abuja the reputation of becoming a “beggars’ city,” and that this image does not align with the vision of the Federal Capital Territory.
“Let me say it clearly now: we have declared war on beggars because Abuja is returning to a beggars' city,” Wike said, making his intentions unmistakable.
“If you know you have a sister, a brother, or anyone else who is begging on the road, now is the time to do something about it. Because from next week, we will remove them from the streets; we will take them out of the city,” he warned.
He went on to describe how embarrassing it is for visitors and investors arriving in the capital, only to be greeted by the sight of people begging on the roads.
Wike also raised an important security concern, suggesting that some of the individuals posing as beggars might not actually be beggars, but criminals disguising themselves to gather information for unlawful purposes.
“We will not allow that to happen,” he stated firmly.
“So, I am giving a public order from now until Sunday. From Monday, we will remove them from the city. It's embarrassing to have such a situation in our nation's capital.”
He stressed that the presence of beggars creates an environment where insecurity can thrive, as some of them might be informants or have ties to criminal activities. He indicated that the removal of these individuals would contribute to improving security, allowing residents to feel safer and sleep more peacefully at night.
Wike acknowledged that his decision might not sit well with everyone, but insisted that it is necessary for the greater good of the city.
“We have to do the right thing. Sometimes, we don’t need to make everyone happy. What’s important is that we must fulfill our duties,” he said.
He concluded by reiterating that the well-being and security of the people of Abuja take priority over any criticisms, and that tough measures like this are part of ensuring a safer, cleaner, and more organized city for all.