“Children Are Not Begging Tools”: Oyo Advocates Sound Alarm Over Rising Street Child Exploitation
Child protection advocates in Ibadan are raising urgent concerns about the growing number of children forced to beg on streets, highways, and motor parks across Oyo State, warning that the practice exposes them to serious safeguarding risks.
The alarm was sounded by the Child Protection Network (CPN), Ibadan Zone 1, following its 2026 strategic meeting. In a communiqué signed by Zonal Coordinator Jadesola Ajibola and Secretary Lawal Omolabake, the group described street begging as an increasing form of child exploitation, with some adults allegedly using children to generate income.
According to the network, children on the streets face heightened risks of sexual abuse, trafficking, accidents, and other forms of exploitation. Advocates say the situation also contributes to rising numbers of out-of-school children, further deepening their vulnerability.
The group called for immediate action to remove children from unsafe street environments and strengthen enforcement of child protection laws. It urged security agencies to investigate and prosecute individuals exploiting children under provisions of the Child’s Rights Act and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law.
Beyond law enforcement, the advocates stressed the need for coordinated safeguarding measures involving multiple government ministries, including Education, Health, Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, and Youth and Sports.
The network also appealed to the Oyo State government to expand social support systems for vulnerable families. Recommended interventions include access to food, education, healthcare, and economic empowerment for parents to reduce the conditions that push children onto the streets.
Child protection advocates warned that street children are often drawn into criminal activities or exploited by organized groups, underscoring the urgent need for preventive safeguarding measures ahead of the 2026 International Day for Street Children in April.
