The Kwara State Government has taken a tough action against street begging and other social vices, particularly in Ilorin metropolis where they are a growing menace.
The government, warned that street beggars and anyone that indulges in child hawking, street hawking and selling of intoxicating substances would be made to face the wrath of the law.
The Commissioner for Social Development, Hajia Mariam Nna Fatima Imam, made this known recently during a familiarization visit to the Committee on Business, Innovation, Industry, Women Affairs and Social Development at the Kwara State House of Assembly, Ilorin.
Hajia Imam, who decried street begging and the security risks it poses, disclosed that awareness will be created across the state on the penalties that await those caught in the act of begging.
She noted that relevant stakeholders had been involved in the routine of the ministry, adding that jingles will be aired in three major languages, English, Yoruba and Hausa, across the three Senatorial Districts of the state.
The Commissioner, further revealed that the aim is to rid the streets of miscreants and protect the children against abuse in any form, adding that street begging poses security challenges, constitutes environmental nuisances.
The Chairman of the Committee on Business, Innovation, Industry, Women Affairs and Social Development, Kwara State House of Assembly, Olushola Odetundun, lauded the ministry for its swift action against street begging, which he said will become a major security challenge if not addressed immediately.
He said the purpose of the meeting was to intimate the state House of Assembly with the activities of the ministry, urging them to communicate all the challenges they are facing to the House of Assembly.
