In the heart of Abuja, a new wave of beggars, dubbed “Corporate Beggars,” is emerging, targeting areas such as shopping malls, markets, bus stops, religious centers, hospitals, and offices. Investigative findings reveal that for some, begging has transformed into a lucrative livelihood, outpacing the earnings of certain employees.
Godson Amadi, a vigilant observer, shared insights into their tactics, noting that they often strike when spotting well-dressed individuals or those in upscale vehicles. Amadi remarked, “It is either their wallets, or credit cards have been stolen. Once you respond to their greetings politely, they strike.”
Halima Sani, a civil servant, recounted a beggar’s elaborate story at the federal secretariat car park, where she parted with N10,000. Later, the beggar reappeared at a bank, changing her tale, prompting Sani to confront her, revealing the beggar’s duplicity.
Esther Ibrahim, another victim, swore off helping after a beggar at Kado fish market deceived her. Ibrahim discovered the beggar’s collaboration with salespersons to share profits.
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A seasoned businessman, Aliyu Audu, expressed familiarity with their deceptive narratives, emphasizing their exploitation of innocent citizens.
Despite the prevalence of corporate begging, a beggar at Wuse Market, who chose anonymity, defended the practice, stating, “Most of us beg because we have no other means of livelihood.”
Emmanuel Eze, forced into begging after a job loss due to fuel subsidy removal, lamented the economic downturn. Isa Isa, born with a disability, embraces begging as his only source of income, making over N300,000 monthly.
Nuhu Bello, a 12-year-old beggar, highlighted the grim reality: “My father is dead; he was a beggar, and my mum cannot beg. I have to do it to feed her and my four siblings”.