Lagos Assembly backs state police push, advances anti-street begging bill

The Lagos State House of Assembly has renewed its call for state police and advanced a bill to ban street begging, citing rising insecurity and exploitation of vulnerable populations. Speaker Mudashiru Obasa led the push, arguing that state police would allow local authorities to recruit and manage officers familiar with Lagos' unique security challenges. He maintained that kidnapping, banditry and violent crime cannot be effectively addressed without greater state control over policing. Obasa supported a model where governors appoint state commissioners of police, subject to assembly confirmation, and called for legislative oversight of senior police appointments. He dismissed concerns about political misuse, saying similar fears once surrounded the federal police system. "We must not allow such fears to weaken a reform whose primary objective is the protection of lives and property," Obasa said. On street begging, the Assembly passed a bill at second reading to prohibit begging, street urchins and related activities. Lawmakers said the practice is often used as a front for theft and robbery, particularly in traffic corridors and public spaces. Desmond Elliot urged that the law not criminalise poverty, calling for rehabilitation centres and support systems for those taken off the streets. "We must give this legislation a human face. There should be rehabilitation centres where those taken off the streets can receive care, support and opportunities for reform," Elliot said. Obasa clarified the bill does not target charity but seeks to regulate how aid is given, arguing that unchecked street giving fuels organised begging. He said, "If there is no giver, there will be no beggar." The anti-begging bill has been sent to the Committee on Youth and Social Development, which has two weeks to report back before further action.

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