Street begging is a prevalent social issue that affects communities worldwide which involves individuals who solicit money or goods from others in public space due to underlying factors.
Although, street begging is common among people with disabilities and those with mental health issues who may face challenges in finding suitable employment, but in recent times, many abled persons are engaging in the act due to economy situation, poverty, lack of access to education, and Unemployment.
In Ibadan the Oyo state capital, residents are expressing concern over the increase presence of street beggars in major areas, which is causing disruptions to the normal flow of traffic in the city and security bridge most time.
Areas like Orita- Ring Road- Molete, Oja’ba, Bere-Oje- Gate, Jembewon- Sabo- Mokola- Bodija-Eleyele- UI –Ojoo, Iwo Rd-Academy-Monatan and others are major places where beggars of different tribes could be find in Ibadan.
What are the negative impacts Street begging can have on those engaged in it, the society as a whole and how to reduce it, Yesfm’s Aliyah Olaniyan spoke to some resident of Ibadan and they had this to say.
Investigation revealed that since the inception of the present administration of governor Seyi Makinde, evacuation of beggars and destitutes in some parts of Ibadan has been done more than three times