Following the arrest of a suspected bandit who allegedly pretended to be a beggar in Igbaja, Ifelodun Local Government Area of the state, the Kwara State Government has stepped up its crackdown on street begging.
During a monitoring and enforcement effort in the city of Ilorin, Hajia Mariam Nnafatima Imam, the Commissioner for Social Development, informed officials of the development.
In a statement issued on Saturday, February 14, 2026, by the Ministry’s Press Secretary, Rasheedat Shodunke, the commissioner described the incident as a serious security breach capable of undermining public safety.
“The Kwara State Government has launched a full-scale enforcement operation against street begging across the state, following growing security concerns triggered by the recent arrest of a suspected bandit who allegedly disguised himself as a beggar in Igbaja, Ifelodun Local Government Area,” the statement read.
According to the Commissioner, the Igbaja incident has exposed how street begging can be exploited by criminal elements to infiltrate communities, gather intelligence, and threaten public safety.
“This is no longer just a social issue; it is now a serious security concern. We cannot allow criminals to hide under the guise of begging to endanger our people,” she said.
Hajia Imam emphasised that although the state government is still dedicated to helping those in need through programs for empowerment, skill development, and rehabilitation, it would not put up with street begging being used as a pretext for unlawful activity.
She described the practice as exploitative and harmful, and cautioned sponsors, parents, and guardians from sending dependents and children to beg on the streets.
“Vulnerable individuals and children are being exposed to criminal networks, trafficking, and abuse.” In a responsible society, this is not acceptable,” she continued.
