News
“Stop Using Poverty as an Excuse for Security Threats” – Wike To Abuja Beggars
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has defended his recent crackdown on beggars in Abuja, explaining that the measure aims to address growing security threats in the nation’s capital.
In October, Wike declared a “war on beggars,” aiming to reduce the rising presence of street beggars across Abuja.
Speaking on Wednesday during a live media briefing at his Abuja office, Wike addressed these concerns, highlighting the link between security and the need to regulate street activities.
He explained that while poverty remains an ongoing challenge, it should not be used as an excuse to overlook potential security risks.
Wike pointed out that in many cities around the world, urban policies limit street begging to ensure public safety, and Abuja should be no different, especially as it hosts major government offices, embassies, and businesses.
The former Rivers State governor emphasized that security in the FCT cannot be taken lightly.
He noted that some beggars in the city may not be as innocent as they appear.
In his view, there’s a real risk of criminals and terrorist informants disguising themselves as beggars to gather information on individuals, tracking residents’ routines and potentially relaying crucial details to criminal networks.
Wike highlighted that no country has fully eliminated poverty or unemployment but argued that in the face of security threats, a balance must be struck.
“There are people who could easily position themselves near your home or office under the guise of begging,” Wike said.
“But they’re actually monitoring your movements—knowing when you leave and return.
We have to take proactive measures.”
APC chieftain Joe Igbokwe has pointed fingers at Nigerian traders for the continued surge in food prices across the country. In a Facebook post on Saturday, the outspoken supporter of President Bola Tinubu’s administration accused traders of being too greedy to reduce their prices.
He added that even as statistics suggest that the cost of food is starting to drop, traders have refused to comply. Furthermore, he expressed frustration, saying the refusal to lower prices shows a deeper problem of selfishness among citizens. According to him, Nigerians are their own worst enemies, driven by greed and a habit of taking more than they need.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to travel to Rome this Saturday to attend the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church. The invitation came directly from Pope Leo XIV, who emphasized the importance of the president’s presence during this significant moment for the Church and a world facing many challenges.
Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, will be officially installed as the 267th Bishop of Rome on Sunday, May 18, at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican.
President Tinubu will be accompanied by key Catholic figures, including the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Archbishop Lucius Ugorji of Owerri, Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Abuja, Archbishop Alfred Martins of Lagos, and Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah of Sokoto.
Notably, Pope Leo XIV has a special connection to Nigeria, having worked at the Apostolic Nunciature in Lagos during the 1980s. After the ceremony, President Tinubu is expected to return to Abuja on Tuesday, May 20.
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has urged Nigerians to preserve their culture and ensure it doesn’t fade away with time. Speaking through his deputy, Barrister Adebayo Lawal, at the 2025 World Egungun Festival grand finale held in Ibadan, Makinde emphasized the importance of keeping traditions alive.
The event took place at Obafemi Awolowo Stadium in the Oke Ado area and was graced by top dignitaries including Chief Lekan Alabi, who represented the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, Osun State’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Ojo Abiodun, Prince Adeola Adelakun of Oje Parapo Worldwide, and Oyo State’s own Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun.
Makinde stressed that culture and tourism are key focus areas for his administration, and his government is committed to supporting efforts that will keep local traditions thriving. He added that by investing in cultural events and heritage, the state can boost its economy through tourism and increase revenue. He said, “We must not let our culture die. I’m glad to see young people taking part in this celebration, not just the elders.”
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