In a move to boost security in Ilorin, the Kwara State Government has begun arresting and prosecuting beggars and street urchins across the state capital.
The operation, led by the Commissioner for Social Development, Hajia Mariam Nnafatima Imam, was carried out by the ministry’s enforcement team. A total of 66 individuals, 28 women, 17 men and 21 children were picked up from key areas including Post-Office, Taiwo Road, Asa-Dam, Gerin-Alimi, Garage Offa Roundabout and Tanke.
According to a statement by the ministry’s spokesperson, Janet Bogunjoko, the offenders were taken to a Mobile Court located at the ministry’s headquarters, where they were tried and convicted.
Presiding Magistrate Jumoke Bello sentenced most of the offenders to community service, including sweeping and weeding in public places, as outlined in the state’s Social Development Laws. Five individuals received a one-month sentence at the federal correctional facility.
Commissioner Nnafatima Imam noted that the action followed repeated warnings and awareness campaigns. She emphasized that the crackdown will continue and urged others involved in street begging to take the government’s warning seriously.