By Ihechi Enyinnaya
In a striking statement, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike has threatened to arrest all beggars in Abuja.
In a video circulating online, Wike who was addressing a public function, highlighted the increasing visibility of beggars in Abuja, calling the situation “embarrassing” for residents and visitors alike.
He expressed concerns that many individuals on the streets may not even be genuine beggars but potential criminals masquerading as such.
He said:”Abuja is turning into a city of beggars. If you know you have a sister, you have a brother who is beggar on the road from next week we will carry them, we will take them out –
“It is embarrassing, when people come into Abuja the first thing they see are beggars. Sometimes too, they are not beggars. They may be criminal pretending to be beggars. So I have giving you a public holiday from now till Sunday. From Monday, we will pack them. It is very embarrassing. Let us know that we have a city.”
The Minister’s remarks reflect a growing frustration with the rising number of beggars, which he believes tarnishes Abuja’s image as a capital city. “It is time we recognize that we have a city to uphold,” Wike asserted, pledging that from Monday, authorities will begin systematic efforts to remove beggars from the streets.
As the initiative unfolds, many are watching to see how it will impact the city’s social landscape and what measures will be implemented to provide support for those affected.
Watch the video below:
♦️https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bsqdPnoU2e4