News
Abuja: A city under siege of hawkers, beggars, and corrupt law enforcers.
Gbenga Odunsi went around the Capital City to spotlight the activities of hawkers and beggars and how corrupt officials are exploiting the situation in less than moral ways.
Many petty street traders and beggars have continued invading major bus stops, interjections, road corridors and pedestrian bridges or over-head bridges located within the heart of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Residents of Abuja have raised alarm over the influx of beggars and hawkers into the Federal Capital Territory. They expressed concern that the influx of beggars and hawkers into Nigeria’s capital could be a security threat if not checked.
According to reports, several attempts at enforcing the ban on street hawking and begging within the federal capital seemed not to be yielding the desired result, as it is not uncommon to be accosted by many street traders and beggars roaming the city, investigations revealed.
Though the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB) is saddled with the responsibility of getting rid of hawkers, beggars and lunatics in the city, it is safe to say the board has gone to sleep.
“Hawking and begging for alms on major streets in Abuja is now a regular sight. Far from the intention of the city’s master-plan, hawking is carried out in places where it has earlier been prohibited,’’ an angry resident says.
Investigation further reveals that the old parade ground in Garki Area 10, Banex junction, Lugbe Federal Housing, War College, Area 1, Area 3 axis of the city centre, boast growing population of hawkers taking over the city.
The AEPB in collaboration with the security agencies carried out major raids on some street hawkers operating around Banex Plaza and some streets in Wuse 2, as well as other environs of Abuja.
AEBP van.
The exercise, which was part of the Board’s monthly sanitation programme, initiated as part of its efforts towards promoting a sustainable environment and city management, specifically targeted at ridding the FCT of illegal traders and food vendors operating in restricted areas in the city.
To escape arrest by the AEBP task force, many of the petty street traders took to their heels as if it was a rat race competition they were involved in. While some abandoned their wares and ran, wishing they had wings to fly, a few looked for places to hide their wares before running for cover.
However, to hawkers like Abdullahi who came from Kogi state, hawking became the last resort after he came to Abuja where he thought connections and opportunities abound. He said that hawking at night is safer than in the day.
Another hawker who does not want his name in print said he came to Abuja, because of the hardship he was passing through in his state, feeding his wife and children was a tug of war. He however noted that the only problem in achieving his plan is the AEPB task force who are very brutal when discharging their duties.
Another hawker, Nabilah, selling donut and eggroll along the street of Area 11, who expressed her anger and frustration over her predicament, decried that the constant pressures being exerted on her and others by the Board is too much to bear, as they keep recording huge loss in their business.
“Environmental people usually mount pressure on us, as if people working in the organization don’t have human sympathy for the poor, just trying to cater for themselves.
“They are very wicked, as they destroy people’s items that some of them bought on credit; so, when we see the task force na so I run; but what do they want us to do when we have to eat,” she said.
Taking time to interview some beggars in the FCT, findings revealed that begging for alms is the main source of livelihood for most of the beggars. Some beggars hibernate under the pretense of economic hardship, while some simply see it as a way of life.
Both local and corporate beggars exist in the FCT. Corporate beggars are unemployed graduates who came to Abuja to find their feet, but are yet to gain any meaningful employment. These set of people resort to begging to keep body and soul together. They can be easily spotted carrying transparent file, and wearing suit and tie.
According to a local beggar, who gave his name as Ibrahim, he left his home state of Katsina seven years ago, to Abuja to beg as source of income when he could not lay hands on any profitable business to sustain him and his family of two wives and nine children.
Another beggar said was invited by his friend who had been in the business for a while to come over and stop suffering working on the farms.
More Petty traders narrate their experience, this time horrific
Gbenga, in a chat with some hawkers who sell fruits along federal secretariat said they are being ‘harassed’ daily by the authorities.
One of them identified as Gloria who is a widow while explaining in tears said that the operation of the AEPB officials is really affecting her business which is the only source of her livelihood.
“The government is not pitying us and we are the ones that voted them in. I am a widow and this is the only thing I am using to send my children to school and to feed them. My first son is a graduate but he has never gotten a job all because of this bad economy that we are facing.
“This people (AEPB) are really disturbing us, if I use all the money I make in a day to bribe, what will I use to continue the business. Government should please have mercy on us. This suffering is too much.’’
Also, Rose who seems to be educated complained: “How do they want us to quit our source of livelihood when they haven’t provided alternatives for us?
“The government is insensitive and officials of AEPB have continued to add to the pain; they extort from us, seize our wares when we fail to pay them and most times physically harass us. You can imagine me running with my tray of banana every now and then.”
The story is not also different with the experience of Audu a teenager who hawks along Asokoro.
He told the journalist in pidgin English that AEBP officials who claim to be Abuja task force come with their vehicle and men almost 3 to 5 times daily to extort them.
Audu who sells children writing toys explained that he was almost knocked down by a moving car while being chased by AEPB officials.
AEPB reacts…
When contacted, the AEPB management, the spokesperson Muktar Ibrahim in an exclusive interview said that hawkers giving bribes to any person claiming to be an official of the agency to evade justice is also crime but he noted that this does not legitimize hawking in Abuja as it is still illegal.
Muktar noted that the agency ‘frowns’ against any illegal act by any official that can tarnish the image of the organisation.
“This people that made the allegation they are not denying the fact that they have committed an offence because as everybody knows hawking on the street of Abuja is not permitted. So, we are all under the law but whoever gives and he who takes bribe have committed offences.
The traders and the person they gave the money to, they have all broken the law and they should be made to face the full wrath of the law.
‘’Haven said that, the people that have come to complain, they don’t have any moral right to make this complaint because they are partners with the ‘criminals’ that take money from them. Abuja Environmental Protection Board does not condole criminalities. We do not send out criminals to the street to extort money from whoever.
‘’But as we have in the world, there will always be bad eggs. If the claims by the traders are truthful, it will represent the act of the bad eggs which we have in Abuja Environmental Protection Board agency. If we can unmask them as we have done in some occasions, we will make them to face the full wrath of law after kicking them out from the organization.
A roadside seller who was almost knocked down by a car.
‘’Everybody needs to be aware of the activities of imposters, we have imposters that act as members of AEPB and that is why I advise the public that there if there is doubt about the conduct of any person who claims to be a staff of AEPB, they should call our numbers and complain. we will not protect any bribe taker…’’
How to rid the city of the menace?
A public affairs analyst, Muftau Salihu has this advice to the authorities on how to curb the menace
“AEBP not only needs to double its raids on the perpetrators, but to equally adopt new measures, to achieve the desired goal. Since the hawkers are adamant to leave the streets, the raiding should be more often, more anti-hawking posters should be placed along the streets, boldly in the three major languages in Nigeria. This would enable the beggars and hawkers to understand the message very clearly, which before now, they seemed not to be doing.
“In addition, trade unions in the FCT should have a workshop for the hawkers telling them the dangers that comes with street hawking, as this will go way to reduce the menace. Beggars should be given vocational skills, and thereafter equipped and made to return to their various states.”
By Gbenga Odunsi, Abuja.
The Chairman of the House Committee on the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) and representative of Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency in Oyo State, Engr. Aderemi Oseni, on Saturday urged the community to unite in advancing key development projects aimed at transforming Ikogosi.
Speaking at this year’s Ikogosi Day celebration and the launch of a N1 billion development project in Ekiti, the lawmaker, who served as the Chairman of the occasion, emphasised the importance of unity and collective action.
He encouraged attendees to approach the celebration as a call to action for the betterment of their community.
“As we all know, Ikogosi is not merely a town; it is a treasured gem in the heart of Ekiti State and Nigeria as a whole,” he said. “Ikogosi, a historic and vibrant town, plays a vital role in the tourism and economic landscape of Ekiti State. Its rich cultural heritage and unique resources draw visitors and stimulate economic activities that benefit us all.”
“Today is not just a celebration; it is a call to action,” he continued. “Let us come together, united in purpose, to support these transformative projects that promise to uplift the Ikogosi community. I urge everyone here to invest their time, resources, and energy in this endeavor. Together, we can build a legacy of self-help and development that future generations will cherish.”
Reflecting on the broader challenges facing the country, Oseni encouraged the people of Ikogosi and all Nigerians to remain hopeful and resilient, assuring them of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to a brighter future for the nation.
“To the good people of Ikogosi and all citizens of Nigeria, I urge you to remain steadfast and hopeful. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu means well for all Nigerians. The APC-led administration’s Renewed Hope agenda holds the promise of a brighter future. Though the beginnings may be challenging, perseverance will guide us toward a prosperous new Nigeria,” he stated.
In a statement released by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, the lawmaker lauded the Ekiti State government under Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s leadership for its transformative efforts in governance and development.
He acknowledged the strides made by the governor and praised his impactful initiatives, which have set Ekiti on a progressive path.
“First and foremost, let me commend the Ekiti State government under the leadership of His Excellency, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. The trailblazing development initiatives and effective governance during your tenure have not gone unnoticed,” Oseni remarked.
“Under your stewardship, we have witnessed remarkable progress and commendable governance that have undoubtedly made Ekiti State a shining example of peace and development,” he added.
The Nigerian Minister of Works, David Umahi, has ignited widespread public reaction following his response to recent criticisms by Engr. Aderemi Oseni, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA).
Oseni, who represents Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency in Oyo State, had accused Umahi of neglecting essential infrastructure needs, alleging that the minister has “no plan for the nation.”
At a committee oversight meeting last Thursday, the lawmaker expressed his frustration over the worsening state of roads across the country.
“You are not here to tell us what we already know in the area of resources,” Oseni stated. “If you are telling us the reason you have failed in fixing our road infrastructure is because of resources, don’t let me take you up on that, because you concentrated your energy as a minister on less priority issues.”
Hon. (Engr.) Aderemi Oseni, representing Ibarapa East/Ido federal constituency of Oyo state
In response, Umahi addressed a press briefing at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on Monday, dismissing Oseni’s comments.
He remarked that Oseni “had not attained half of what I have achieved in life” and added that he would “not join issues with the lawmaker” out of respect for the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the National Assembly.
Speaking further, the minister suggested that Oseni was representing contractors affected by recent reforms in the Ministry of Works.
“Let me say that I was not physically present at the meeting, nor was my permanent secretary,” Umahi said. “Nobody can talk to me like that in my presence. It’s not possible.”
Public Outcry: Nigerians Demand Accountability
Umahi’s remarks have drawn backlash on social media, where Nigerians urged him to focus on addressing their concerns about deplorable road conditions rather than deflecting criticisms.
Many expressed frustration with the state of federal roads, calling on the minister to prioritize solutions over defensiveness.
“Mr umahi, ur have actually abandoned our existing roads all over Nigeria and focusing on elephants projects”, commented Daniel Morgan. “Travelling from Southwest to Southeast is now by the special grace of God. Please do something and stop criticizing the messenger and look into the massage.”
Charles Anarado added, “No matter how one may look at this matter, Oseni stands on a sound good point that building a new stretch of road for N15trillion that is more than enough to fix all the bad major roads around the country seems indeed to be a misplaced priority. It’s just like parent using the funds meant for paying his children to school to buy a car to take them to school. His decision may seem good but paying school fees should certainly be his priority”.
Calls for Transparency and Priority on Repairs
Other Nigerians joined the conversation, with some social media users demanding more accountability from the minister.
Nnaemeka Mekah voiced frustration over Umahi’s response to criticism, stating, “This short man takes every criticism as a personal attack. Oga minister, MOST NIGERIAN ROADS ARE IMPASSABLE NOW, and you’re doing absolutely nothing about it. Dunno what else you claim to have achieved in life, but as far as Nigerian toads are concerned, you’re a monumental failure”.
Another user, Nanmah Fanto, supported Oseni’s criticisms, commenting, , “The Reps Committee Chairman, was absolutely correct 2 tell Umahi d truth about accountability n Umahi’s lack of given priority 2 existing bad roads, n concentrating on unimportant road construction. I used 2 think Umahi was wise, until that incident I realized that he wasn’t better at all, he’s also thinking of enriching himself at d detriment of fixing our bad roads. Now, I know better, he shouldn’t be given any more funds until he explains how judiciously he spent d #300 billion given to him”.
Meanwhile, Facebook user, Dapo Oyedele suggested a constructive approach, urging Umahi to respond with facts.
“It’s not about joining issues, it’s accountability. The truth is that federal roads are very bad. But your ministry is doing it’s best. The roads are many… Reply the honourable with facts and figures of what has been done in about one and half years and what’s are your plans to improve the situation of the roads as d minister”.
Nationwide Demand for Effective Solutions
Frustration over Nigeria’s roads continued to echo online, with many demanding that Umahi focus on repairing existing infrastructure.
Ogheneovo Peter William, another Facebook user remarked, “I will join issue Because na bitter the lawmaker tell you, Bad roads every, People are suffering from una bad policies, Them people go still suffer bad road”? he questioned.
“It is not about joining the issue with anyone. It is about fixing the existing roads that we have and stop this white elephant project of Lagos calabar costar road”, a user on Facebook, Sunday Adewuyi Adedokun said.
Continuing, Francis Azuka Obukwelu opined on the ‘blue App’, “He should say something about the bad roads in Nigeria”.
The Chairman, House Committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Engr. Aderemi Oseni has made a donation of ten million naira (N10m) towards the Mogajis’ Ile Eke project in Ibadan.
Oseni, who also represents Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency of Oyo State, said the donation is aimed at supporting the Mogajis assembly’s project that holds immense cultural significance for the wider Ibadan community.
According to him, the project will remain a testament to the cultural and historical legacy of Ibadanland as it is expected to preserve the historic relevance of the palace while enhancing its role as a cultural landmark.
In a statement released on Saturday by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, and made available to newsmen in Ibadan, the lawmaker emphasised the importance of preserving cultural heritage and fostering unity within traditional institutions.
He highlighted that the project would not only elevate the status of the Mogajis’ assembly but also serve as a central hub for promoting Ibadan’s rich cultural history.
“It is a privilege that I was called to be part of the project. If I fail to support it, the project will still be successful, but I believe I have to contribute. My life is dedicated to serving God Almighty, the people, and humanity,” Oseni said.
He further stated, “As a son of the soil, it is my responsibility to contribute to the growth of our shared heritage – Ibadan and by extension, Oyo state as a whole. The Mogajis’ Ile Eke project symbolises our collective identity and unity as a people. This donation is my modest contribution towards ensuring that future generations can connect with their roots.”
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