FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY
As efforts intensify to address the growing menace of street begging and its link to insecurity, Edo State government has initiated a strategic partnership with the Hausa community in Benin City.
Towards this end, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Chief Bisi Idaomi met leaders of the community headed by Alhaji Adamu Isa Adamu.
The meeting focused on the identification, relocation and rehabilitation of individuals engaged in street begging — particularly those alleged to be involved in criminal activities under the guise of destitution in areas such as Ring Road, Akpakpava, Ikpoba Hill and Mission Road.
Speaking, Chief Idaomi stated that the administration is concerned about the increasing reports of disturbances and felonious acts linked to street beggars.
“Our sons and daughters are complaining about the deteriorating state of affairs in certain areas of our city. Government is determined to act without triggering misunderstanding or conflict among residents,” she noted.
She reaffirmed Governor Monday Okpebholo’s broader security and social welfare reform agenda, which aims to restore dignity to public spaces, protect vulnerable populations and ensure that criminal elements no longer exploit societal sympathy.
Alhaji Adamu, on his part, expressed full support for the initiative, describing it as timely and necessary. “We are ready to work with the Edo State government through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to ensure that these efforts succeed. Criminals posing as beggars tarnish the reputation of the Hausa community and we will not condone such behavior,” he stated.
