Lagos Commissioner Urges Public to Stop Supporting Agberos

Tokunbo Wahab, the Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, called on celebrities, influencers, and the public to avoid actions that inadvertently support street urchins, commonly referred to as agberos. This appeal was made in a post on X after Wahab was tagged in a video documentary showcasing the activities of these street urchins.

He noted that the Lagos State Government has been actively apprehending and dislodging street urchins from various locations, but the financial support and patronage they receive from some public figures undermine these efforts. Wahab stated that this support leads street urchins to perceive their activities as a viable means of livelihood, fostering a sense of entitlement.

He emphasized the importance of public cooperation in addressing issues of lawlessness, insecurity, street begging, and environmental nuisance, highlighting that collective responsibility is crucial for a safer and cleaner Lagos. The Lagos State Government has intensified enforcement against street begging and environmental issues, conducting raids on suspected street urchins and beggars.