Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Lagos State Government, through its Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, has arrested 45 beggars, including nine children, during a coordinated enforcement exercise in Oshodi, Agege and the CMS (Central Mosque) area of the state. The operation, which was carried out on Wednesday, 3 June 2026, is part of the government’s sustained effort to clear major roads and public spaces of street begging, which officials say poses serious safety and health risks.
In a statement posted on his X handle, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, gave a breakdown of the arrests. According to him, 22 beggars, comprising adults and a few teenagers, were apprehended in Oshodi and Agege. Another 14 adults and nine children were also taken into custody at the CMS area during the same exercise. “Earlier today, in a separate enforcement operation, our team apprehended 22 beggars at Oshodi and Agege, comprising adults and a few teenagers. Additionally, 14 adults and 9 children were apprehended at CMS,” Wahab stated.
The commissioner noted that clearance operations are ongoing in other parts of the state, including Admiralty Way in Lekki and Addo Road in Ajah. He reiterated the government’s zero‑tolerance policy for street begging, explaining that it endangers both the individuals involved and the general public, especially when carried out along highways and busy commercial corridors.
The latest arrests follow a wider environmental enforcement push that has seen the state record over 10,600 arrests in the past year for various offences, including illegal highway crossing, street trading, open defecation and waste‑management violations. The government has consistently defended its anti‑begging campaigns, arguing that they are necessary to maintain order and safety, while also working with social welfare agencies to rehabilitate those who are genuinely vulnerable.
However, the arrest of minors has once again sparked public debate. Critics argue that arresting children who beg on the streets does not address the root causes of poverty and displacement. In previous operations, the government has responded by saying that child beggars are taken to state‑run homes where they can receive care and education, rather than being left on the streets.
As of Thursday, 4 June 2026, no further details had been released on whether any of the arrested persons have been charged, released, or handed over to rehabilitation centres. The enforcement teams are expected to continue their operations in other identified black spots across the Lagos metropolis.
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