(Lagos State House of Assembly. Photo by Nation News)
Stakeholders at a Lagos State House of Assembly meeting have voiced strong support for a new law aimed at stopping street begging and clearing area boys off the roads, saying the move is way overdue.
Representatives from the NBA, traditional leaders, and local groups pointed out that areas like Lekki-Epe and Ojodu-Berger are becoming unsafe.
They raised concerns about beggars using weapons at night to force people to give them money.
Many suggested setting up more rehabilitation centers, providing mental health care, and forcing offenders to do community service instead of just letting them go after a light arrest.
Under the proposed law, using children for street begging or hawking will be completely banned, and any children caught will be handed over to child welfare.
For adults, first-time offenders will be sent to rehab to learn trade skills.
Second-time offenders could pay a fine or spend up to three months in prison, while repeat offenders could face up to two years behind bars.
Government officials promised that the law will focus on helping people rebuild their lives while keeping the streets safe.
