The Kwara State Government has stepped up efforts to curb street begging after security operatives arrested a man suspected to be a bandit who allegedly posed as a beggar in Igbaja, located in Ifelodun Local Government Area.
The development was disclosed on Friday by the Commissioner for Social Development, Hajia Mariam Nnafatima Imam, during a monitoring and enforcement operation across Ilorin metropolis. In a statement released on Saturday by the ministry’s Press Secretary, Rasheedat Shodunke, the commissioner described the incident as a disturbing security lapse that demands urgent attention.
According to her, the arrest highlights the possibility of criminal elements exploiting street begging as a cover for unlawful activities, thereby posing risks to residents.
She reiterated that while the state government remains committed to assisting genuinely vulnerable individuals through structured rehabilitation and empowerment programmes, it would not allow criminal elements to hide under the guise of social hardship.
The commissioner also cautioned parents and guardians against sending children or dependants to beg on the streets, warning that such actions expose them to exploitation, abuse, and other dangers.
Residents were urged to remain alert and report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities. She further advised members of the public to extend support to vulnerable individuals through recognised government channels and credible humanitarian organisations rather than giving alms indiscriminately on the streets.
The ministry confirmed that enforcement activities, already ongoing in Ilorin, will be expanded to other local government areas across the state. It added that anyone found participating in or enabling street begging would face legal consequences in accordance with existing state laws.
The commissioner reaffirmed the government’s resolve to maintain public safety while promoting responsible social support systems throughout Kwara State.
