Wike vows to rid FCT streets of beggars

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Mr Nyesom Wike, has declared to rid the streets of Abuja city of beggars.

Wike made the declaration at the official commencement of the construction of the access road from Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway by N16, to Judges Quarters, in Katampe District, Abuja on Tuesday, saying they pose security risk

He said that the move was necessary over concerns that Abuja was turning into a beggars’ city.

“Let me say clearly now, we have declared war on beggars because Abuja is returning to beggar’s city.

“If you know you have a sister, you have a brother who is a beggar on the road, do something, because from next week, we will carry them; we will take them out of the city.

“It is embarrassing that people who come into Abuja, the first thing they see are just beggars on the road,” he said.

The minister added that sometimes the supposed beggars may not be beggars but criminals pretending to be beggars.

“We will not allow that.So, I am giving a public order from now till Sunday. From Monday, we will pack them out. It’s very embarrassing.

“We are fighting insecurity, and people will carry plates begging, and might be informants,” Wike said.

According to him, the move was to ensure maximum security so that residents could sleep with their two eyes closed, noting that some people may not be happy with the decision, saying, “sometimes we don’t need to make you happy.