Despite the Northern region’s longstanding political influence, Saleh Ibrahim, the Chairman of the Non-Governmental Organization, Long Term Solution for Destitute Initiative, expressed shame and disappointment over the high rate of begging among Northerners in Nigeria, according to the Daily Post report.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
He acknowledged that begging goes against Islamic principles and damages one’s self-esteem, citing the late General Hassan Usman Katsina’s strong stance against begging in his final interview.
While commending Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike for addressing the issue of begging in Abuja, Ibrahim warned against overlooking the human rights aspect of the situation and called for a more comprehensive approach.
He noted that previous ministers, such as Nasir El-Rufai, had attempted to address the issue of begging but argued that more sustainable and long-term solutions are needed to effectively address the problem.
Through this statement, Ibrahim highlighted the complexities of addressing the issue of begging in Nigeria and urged leaders to consider the broader social and economic factors contributing to the problem.
According to Saleh Ibrahim, “I am particularly embarrassed by the fact that Northerners dominate the population of beggars in the country, despite our privilege of holding political power the longest. It’s a badge of shame. Islam forbids and discourages begging. Begging destroys one’s pride. It is an insult to self-esteem.
In his last interview with the BBC Hausa Service shortly before his demise, General Hassan Usman Katsina admonished bitterly against begging. However, while we are commending the FCT Minister (Wike) for his “courage” we shouldn’t ignore the human rights angle of the issue. We shouldn’t treat a complex issue superficially. A cosmetic approach to public policy usually makes a bad situation worse. Wike was not the first Minister to expel beggars.”CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
