The Lagos State Government has announced a rigorous campaign to eradicate street begging, particularly targeting those exploiting sick children for alms across the state. This disturbing trend, which mars the mega city’s image, poses both health risks and security challenges. Despite existing laws against such practices, their enforcement has been lackluster, allowing the misuse of ailing children for begging to persist.
The Guardian reported that areas like Ikotun, Ogba, Ajao-Estate, Ikeja, Lekki, Ajah, and Ojodu-Berger have seen a rise in this activity in the last two years. Adults accompanying these sick children often expose their ailments, strategically positioning them with collection bowls, all to elicit public sympathy. However, arrests have been notably absent.
Investigations reveal that while these children survive on minimal sustenance, their handlers profit substantially from the scheme. Social media platforms, notably Facebook, have been used to amplify this trend, often featuring sick children in posts soliciting donations, which are then pocketed by fraudsters.
In some instances, parents exploit their legitimately sick children, diverting funds meant for medical treatment for personal use. Tragically, many of these children succumb to their illnesses, with little follow-up on their fates.
According to a report by The Guardian, Zeinab Oke-Osanyintolu, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Youth and Social Development, affirmed the government’s commitment to this cause. “Our recent operations, especially in the Lekki area, mark the beginning of an ongoing campaign against street begging,” she stated. The strategy involves collaboration with various state agencies and district police officers.
Oke-Osanyintolu also mentioned that stakeholders’ meetings with Arewa (northern) leaders have been held, urging their communities to cease begging activities. Regarding repeat offenders, she emphasized that continuous operations would deter recurrences, with the judiciary handling arrests and imposing fines or jail terms.
In Lagos State, children under 12 and adults over 60 receive free treatment in general hospitals. “Our focus is on caring for vulnerable children and adults. Those found using children for begging will face legal consequences,” Oke-Osanyintolu added.
Benjamin Hundeyin, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, noted that police action depends on directives from the Ministry of Youths and Social Development. “We are ready to arrest criminals and prevent crimes related to this issue, but we need formal reports to act,” he said.
