Street beggars in Kano have made a heartfelt plea to the organisers of the ongoing nationwide protests, urging them to halt the demonstrations for the sake of humanity. They expressed that the protests have made survival increasingly difficult, impacting their ability to earn a living. Many beggars depend on daily earnings to provide for their families, and the ongoing unrest has severely hindered their opportunities to do so.
Baba Haliru, a 70-year-old beggar from Rigiyar Zaki, shared his struggles with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). He lamented that his household of 14 has gone without food for two days in the past four days, surviving only on water. His words reflect the desperation felt by many in similar situations, highlighting the urgent need for resolution.
Other beggars echoed Haliru’s sentiments, emphasizing the dire consequences of the protests on their livelihoods. They called for an end to the unrest and the complete lifting of the curfew, which has further restricted their ability to seek help and sustenance. The beggars find themselves trapped in a cycle of hunger and helplessness, unable to provide for their families.
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Malama Mario Kabiru from Hotoro quarters voiced his frustration, stating that they have run out of food and cannot afford to purchase more. The unbearable situation has left many feeling hopeless, as they struggle to navigate the challenges posed by the protests and the curfew. The community’s plight serves as a stark reminder of the broader impact of civil unrest on vulnerable populations.
Malam Isa Musa from Dorayi quarters also appealed to the government for assistance, particularly for elderly individuals without support. He urged that measures be introduced to cater to their needs, as many have gone days without food. The collective pleas of these beggars underscore the urgent need for dialogue and negotiation to address both the protests and the humanitarian crisis they have inadvertently created.
