Beggars in Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State, have raised concerns about a significant decline in public assistance, describing their living conditions as unbearable. During an interview with DAILY POST at the well-known old market in Lokoja, a beggar named Malam Abubakar Alli expressed worry that he and his fellow beggars were struggling to make enough money for sustenance.
According to Alli, a few years ago, he could confidently claim to earn between N1,500 to N2,000 daily from begging. However, over the past year or so, his earnings have dwindled to less than half of that amount.
Another beggar, Mohammed Adamu, who has been visually impaired for many years, voiced the challenges he faces due to diminishing earnings from begging. He emphasized that as individuals with disabilities, they are dependent on the support of others, but the public’s contributions have significantly decreased. Adamu highlighted the difficulties they encounter, as they are unable to engage in physical work that could generate income.
The beggars appealed to both the State and Federal Government to find meaningful solutions to the prevailing social and economic challenges in the country.
DAILY POST reported that the cost of living in Kogi State, particularly in Lokoja, has risen sharply. Basic food items like garri, once considered a common man’s food, have become unaffordable, with prices skyrocketing. A market survey conducted by DAILY POST in Lokoja revealed exorbitant prices for various commodities, exacerbated by the removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government in 2023, leading to increased costs in transportation and other social services.