The Kwara State Government has stepped up efforts to curb street begging after the arrest of a suspected bandit who allegedly posed as a beggar in Igbaja, Ifelodun Local Government Area.
The Commissioner for Social Development, Hajia Mariam Nnafatima Imam, made this known while addressing officials during a monitoring and enforcement exercise in the Ilorin metropolis.
In a statement issued on Saturday, February 14, 2026, by the ministry’s Press Secretary, Rasheedat Shodunke, the commissioner described the incident as a major security lapse with the potential to threaten public safety.
According to the statement, the government has launched a statewide enforcement operation against street begging in response to rising security concerns linked to the arrest of the suspect in Igbaja.
Hajia Imam said the incident revealed how criminal elements could exploit street begging to infiltrate communities, gather intelligence, and endanger residents.
“This is no longer merely a social challenge but a serious security issue. We cannot permit criminals to disguise themselves as beggars to put our citizens at risk,” she said.
While reaffirming the government’s commitment to assisting vulnerable individuals through rehabilitation, skills acquisition, and empowerment initiatives, the commissioner stressed that authorities would not allow street begging to serve as a cover for unlawful activities.
She also cautioned parents, guardians, and sponsors against sending children or dependants to beg, describing the practice as exploitative and dangerous.
“Exposing children and vulnerable persons to abuse, trafficking, and criminal networks is unacceptable in any responsible society,” she added.
The commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious individuals or activities to security agencies and relevant authorities. She further advised members of the public to refrain from giving alms on the streets, encouraging them instead to support government-approved social intervention programmes and credible humanitarian organisations that can properly assist those in need.
