“Beggars Could Be Terrorists’ Informants” — Wike Defends Crackdown in Abuja

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has justified the recent campaign to remove beggars from the streets of Abuja, stating that some beggars could potentially act as informants for terrorists.

During a live media briefing in his Abuja office, Wike addressed criticism of his decision, which has sparked debate across the nation. In October, he had launched what he described as a “war on beggars” in response to what he perceived as a concerning rise in street begging, which he felt was negatively impacting the city’s image.

Critics argue that this approach is insensitive to the economic hardship affecting many Nigerians. However, Wike defended his stance by focusing on security, suggesting that beggars could be exploited by criminal elements to gather information on high-profile targets or vulnerable locations.

“There is no country in the world that has completely eradicated poverty,” Wike stated. “But we cannot ignore the security risks. We cannot use poverty as an excuse when it comes to safety.”

Wike further elaborated, sharing his belief that some individuals posing as beggars might be strategically placed to monitor residents’ movements. “You may see someone sitting quietly outside your home, but they could be observing your schedule and passing along that information,” he said.

The minister’s comments have added a new dimension to the national conversation on poverty, urban security, and the balance between safeguarding the city and addressing social challenges. While some residents express support for improved security measures, others view the crackdown as a harsh approach that neglects the root causes of poverty.