Lagos Assembly Advances Bill to Prohibit Street Begging

The Lagos State House of Assembly has passed a bill for the second reading that seeks to outlaw street begging throughout the state. Lawmakers voiced concerns over the rising number of beggars in public spaces, describing this trend as a threat to public safety and environmental sanitation.

The proposed legislation aims to provide a legal framework to address the persistent social challenges affecting public security and hygiene in Lagos, which is Nigeria's commercial hub. During the deliberation, various members offered perspectives on the bill's implementation, with some advocating for rehabilitation and welfare support for beggars rather than relying solely on punitive measures.

The bill follows renewed efforts by the Lagos State government, which recently announced the arrest of 396 beggars during a statewide enforcement operation. Desmond Elliot urged the government to adopt a humane approach, especially for children found begging, recommending their removal from the streets and enrollment in rehabilitation programs.

The bill will undergo further scrutiny by the House Committee on Youth, Sports, and Social Development, which is expected to submit its report within two weeks.