The Lagos State House of Assembly has advanced a bill to its second reading that aims to ban street begging throughout the state. Lawmakers expressed significant concern regarding the rising number of individuals soliciting on highways and public areas, citing risks to safety and sanitation. This move was announced by the Assembly’s Public Affairs Directorate on Wednesday.
Legislators noted that the bill seeks to create a legal framework to manage this social issue, which impacts the city’s security and reputation as a commercial center. During the plenary session, members debated the bill’s implementation, with many emphasizing the need for rehabilitation and social support rather than just punishment.
This initiative follows recent enforcement actions by the Lagos State Government, which saw 396 individuals arrested on Tuesday. These individuals are currently being profiled for potential return to their home states. Lawmakers such as Desmond Elliot advocated for a compassionate strategy for children, suggesting they be transitioned into educational and care programs. Others, including Aro Moshood, cautioned that the bill requires careful drafting to prevent enforcement abuses.
Bonu Solomon pointed out that many beggars are not native to Lagos and suggested that the public should stop encouraging the practice through indiscriminate almsgiving. Noheem Adams supported the bill, noting that other regions like Kano, Kaduna, and the FCT have already implemented similar measures. Speaker Mudashiru Obasa agreed that while charity is noble, the security risks necessitate action. He proposed formalizing donation channels and mandated that the bill be reviewed by the House Committee on Youth, Sports and Social Development, which must provide a report within two weeks.
