The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, has begun to remove beggars and scavengers from Abuja’s streets. The initiative, which began on Monday, saw 15 beggars and 19 scavengers arrested across the city.
Multi-Agency Taskforce Targets Known Areas
The operation is a coordinated effort involving the police, military, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and other paramilitary groups. Divided into four teams, the taskforce was strategically deployed to locations where beggars and street disruptions are common, focusing on underpasses, bridges, and other hotspots across the FCT.
Police Commissioner’s Call for Professionalism
FCT Police Commissioner Olatunji Disu labeled the operation a “national assignment,” stressing the importance of maintaining professionalism while executing the minister’s directive. He stated, “This operation will last for two weeks. After that, we will assess our achievements and determine if there is a need to continue.”
Day and Night Patrols Across Abuja
According to Director of FCTA Security Services, Adamu Gwari, represented by Dr. Peter Olumuji, the operation is running day and night across four sectors:
- Metro area: Covering the city center.
- Airport Road: Extending from city gates to Bill Clinton Road.
- Kubwa Axis: Including Kubwa, Gwarimpa, and Dei Dei.
- Asokoro and Surrounding Areas: Reaching AYA, Nyanya, Karu, and Jikwoyi.
Though beggars in the city center reportedly evaded capture, 15 beggars and 19 scavengers were detained from various other sectors. Gwari noted, “Most seem to have gotten the message, but a few still test the waters. We’re addressing them accordingly.”
Expanding the Scope: Roadside Traders and Illegal Operators
Head of Enforcement for the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEBP), Kaka Bello, emphasized that the mission isn’t solely about beggars. The operation aims to cleanse the city of all nuisances, including roadside traders and unlicensed technicians, who will be moved from unauthorized spots around the capital.
Path Forward for Those Detained
Director of FCTA Social Welfare, Dr. Sani Rabe, confirmed that the detained beggars would be taken to a government rehabilitation center in Kuchikon, Bwari Area Council for profiling. Trainable individuals will receive vocational skill training for empowerment, while those unwilling to participate will be repatriated to their states of origin.
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