The Lagos State Government has arrested no fewer than 45 persons engaged in street begging across different parts of the state, as part of its ongoing enforcement and sanitation drive.
The arrests were carried out in Alimosho, Agege, and Oshodi Local Government Areas during coordinated enforcement and mop-up operations by environmental enforcement officers.
The development was confirmed on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, who disclosed the details through his official social media account.
According to the commissioner, the operation forms part of the state government’s routine efforts to enforce environmental laws, maintain public order, and ensure safety on major roads and public spaces across Lagos.
Providing details of the operation, Wahab said a total of 45 street beggars were apprehended in different locations during the exercise.
He explained that 17 persons were arrested in Alimosho during the first phase of the operation. This was followed by the arrest of 12 beggars in Agege.
The enforcement team later returned to Alimosho, where another 10 persons were picked up. The exercise ended with the arrest of six beggars in Oshodi.
“As part of our ongoing enforcement and mop-up exercises across the state, additional arrests were recorded today,” Wahab stated.
He noted that the operations were carried out peacefully and in line with existing environmental and public safety laws.
The Lagos State Government has repeatedly stated its opposition to street begging, especially along highways, major roads, medians, and busy public places.
According to Wahab, street begging poses serious risks to both the beggars and other members of the public.
“Street begging along highways, medians and public spaces poses serious risks to both the individuals involved and other road users, while also undermining public order,” the commissioner said.
He explained that many accidents on Lagos roads are linked to people standing or moving between vehicles to beg for money, which can distract drivers and lead to fatal incidents.
The government also considers street begging an environmental nuisance that affects the image of the state and contributes to disorder in public areas.
Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital, is one of the most populous cities in Africa, with millions of residents and daily visitors. Due to its size and heavy traffic, the state has strict environmental and traffic laws aimed at keeping the city clean, safe, and orderly.
Over the years, successive administrations in Lagos have enforced laws against street trading, illegal dumping of waste, and street begging. These measures are often carried out by environmental enforcement agencies through routine raids and mop-up exercises.
The state government has argued that allowing street begging to continue unchecked encourages child exploitation, human trafficking, and other social problems.
Some of those involved in street begging include women, children, and persons with disabilities. In some cases, children are reportedly sent out by adults to beg for money, raising concerns about child rights and welfare.
The Lagos State Government has, in the past, said it prefers rehabilitation and reintegration rather than punishment for vulnerable persons picked up during such operations.
Although the commissioner did not give details on the next steps for those arrested, past practices suggest that many are usually taken to government facilities for screening.
Some are later reunited with their families, while others may be transferred to rehabilitation centres or referred to social welfare agencies for support.
The Ministry of Youth and Social Development often works with the Ministry of Environment to provide assistance to vulnerable persons, including skills training and temporary shelter.
However, critics argue that enforcement alone is not enough and that more needs to be done to address the root causes of street begging.
The latest arrests have generated mixed reactions among Lagos residents.
Some residents welcomed the action, saying street begging has become a safety hazard, especially on busy roads.
A commercial bus driver in Oshodi said, “Sometimes they run between vehicles, and it can cause accidents. Government is right to stop it.”
Others, however, expressed concern about the welfare of those arrested.
A resident of Agege said, “Many of these people are poor and hungry. Government should help them with jobs or support, not just arrest them.”
Wahab reiterated the state government’s commitment to sustaining enforcement efforts across Lagos. He said the aim is to ensure a safer, cleaner, and more orderly environment for all residents.
According to him, the enforcement exercises will continue in different parts of the state, and residents are advised to comply with environmental laws.
The commissioner also urged members of the public to avoid giving money to street beggars, as it encourages the practice and puts lives at risk.
The arrest of street beggars is part of broader efforts by the Lagos State Government to improve environmental standards in the state.
In recent months, the government has intensified actions against illegal waste dumping, street trading, and traffic violations. Sanitation exercises and public awareness campaigns have also been increased.
Officials say these measures are necessary to manage the challenges of rapid urban growth and ensure Lagos remains livable.