FCT Minister clamps down on beggars in Abuja amid security concerns

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has declared war on beggars who are defacing Abuja City and posing a security risk.

Wike made the declaration during the official commencement of the access road construction from Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway by N16 to Judges Quarters in Katampe District, Abuja, on Tuesday.

The minister said he deemed it necessary to take action due to concerns that Abuja was rapidly transforming into a city overrun by beggars.

He said: “Let me say clearly now that we have declared war on beggars because Abuja is returning to beggar’s city.

“If you know you have a sister, you have a brother who is a beggar on the road; do something, because from next week, we will carry them; we will take them out of the city.

“It is embarrassing that people who come into Abuja, the first thing they see are just beggars on the road. We will not allow that.

“So, I am giving a public order from now till Sunday. From Monday, we will pack them out. It’s very embarrassing.
We are fighting insecurity, and people will carry plates begging and might be informants.”

He said the decision aimed to guarantee utmost security, allowing residents to feel safe and secure, even in their sleep.

He believed that some people may not be happy with the decision, saying “sometimes we don’t need to make you happy.”

“What is important is that we must do our work. If you are not happy, there is nothing we can do, but for the well-being of the people, it is key.”