Lagos: The Lagos State House of Assembly on Wednesday took another step toward outlawing street begging, passing a bill for second reading that seeks to prohibit the practice across the state.
Lawmakers said the measure was designed to strengthen security, improve public order and sanitation, and address what they described as a growing social challenge.
They noted that street begging had persisted for years, posing risks to public safety and tarnishing the image of Lagos.
During the debate, members emphasised that the bill should not only prohibit begging but also provide rehabilitation and vocational support for those affected, particularly vulnerable children.
They cautioned against heavy-handed enforcement and urged safeguards to prevent abuse by law enforcement agencies.
Desmond Elliot, representing Surulere Constituency, called for compassion in implementation.
He said children found begging should be removed from the streets and given care, rehabilitation and protection.
Aro Moshood of Ikorodu II Constituency urged careful scrutiny of the bill’s provisions to avoid misinterpretation during enforcement.
Bonu Solomon of Badagry observed that many beggars in Lagos were not indigenes of the state. He recommended penalties for those who encourage begging through indiscriminate giving.
Majority Leader Noheem Adams described the bill as a necessary intervention, advocating relocation of beggars to rehabilitation centres where they could access vocational and social support. He pointed to other states and the Federal Capital Territory that have adopted similar measures.
Speaker Mudashiru Obasa said charitable giving should be channelled through structured government platforms rather than indiscriminate street donations.
He stressed that genuine beggars should be rehabilitated and reintegrated into society through coordinated government programmes.
The bill was referred to the House Committee on Youth, Sports and Social Development for further legislative scrutiny. The committee is expected to report back within two weeks for continued consideration.
