The Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to beggars in Abuja, ordering them to vacate the streets by Sunday or face enforcement actions starting Monday.
Speaking on Tuesday at the launch of an access road project from Ring 1 by N16 to Judges’ quarters in Katampe District, he described the prevalence of begging as an “embarrassment” and a potential security threat to capital city.
He said, “Let me state clearly that we have declared war; Abuja is turning into a beggar city.
“If you know you have a sister or brother who is a beggar, please, from next week, we’ll carry them. We’ll take them out. It is embarrassing that people will come in and the first thing they’ll see are just beggars on the road.
“Sometimes, they may be criminals pretending to be beggars. We will not allow that. So, I’m giving you a public holiday from now until Sunday. From Monday, we will pack them out.”
Wike emphasized that this move is part of the administration’s strategy to enhance Abuja’s image once again.
