The Oyo State Government, working alongside security and environmental enforcement agencies, has carried out a coordinated operation in Ibadan aimed at removing destitute persons and street beggars from major roads and public spaces in the city.
The exercise, which took place on Thursday evening, was jointly executed by the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority, the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, the Nigeria Police Force, the Amotekun Corps, and the Environmental Task Force. The operation was part of ongoing efforts to improve public order and environmental cleanliness across the state capital.
Led by the Chairman of the Environmental Task Force, retired Deputy Commissioner of Police Francis Ojomo, the operation covered key areas such as the Beere, Mapo, and Oja’ba corridors—locations known for heavy commercial and pedestrian activity.
During the exercise, several destitute individuals and street beggars were taken into custody and transported in buses to a rehabilitation and welfare facility located in Akinyele Local Government Area. Officials stated that the facility will be used for profiling, care, and support services.
The Chairperson of the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority, Justice Aderonke Aderemi (rtd.), explained that the initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to maintain environmental standards and ensure public safety. She noted that street begging and the presence of destitute persons on major roads often create obstruction, sanitation issues, and safety concerns.
She emphasized that a clean and well-organized environment remains central to the administration’s development goals under Governor Seyi Makinde. According to her, sustained enforcement will continue across Ibadan and other parts of the state.
She also urged residents to support government efforts by discouraging street begging and cooperating with authorities to maintain order in public spaces.
Authorities confirmed that similar enforcement exercises will continue as part of ongoing measures to improve safety, cleanliness, and urban management across Oyo State.
