‘Corporate Begging’: A Rising Trend In Enugu Due To Economic Hardship

The deteriorating economic conditions in the country have pushed some individuals, who would typically be seen as well-dressed, into the realm of begging, transforming them into “corporate beggars.” This new trend has become increasingly apparent across various locations in Enugu, where these individuals employ diverse strategies to ask for money.

These beggars are noted for their polished appearance and fluency in English, often donning suits to appeal to the sympathy of unsuspecting individuals. It has been observed that these beggars, clad in appealing suits, frequently claim to have run out of fuel, seeking financial assistance ranging from five thousand to ten thousand naira to refill their vehicles.

The surge in the activities of these “corporate” beggars has been notably linked to the removal of fuel subsidy, which has significantly contributed to the prevailing economic difficulties in the country.

Several locals have shared their encounters with these beggars, noting that their solicitations are not devoid of deceitful tactics.

Mr. Uwakwe Justice, residing in Independence Layout, recounted his experience, saying, “These corporate beggars can be found on many streets of Enugu, asking for money. Recently, a smartly dressed man in a suit approached me. Given his appearance, I assumed he was a respectable individual and decided to hear him out. He explained that his vehicle had broken down and he had misplaced his ATM card, rendering him unable to make a transfer due to poor network. He promised to repay me if I helped him, so I gave him 2000 naira. It’s been three months, and I haven’t heard from him. I’ve since written off the money after hearing a similar story from another victim,” he revealed.

Mrs. Amaka Odigbo, who runs a restaurant, also fell prey to these beggars. “There was an instance when a well-dressed man came into my restaurant asking for food. His attire led me not to question his ability to pay. However, after he finished eating, he started weaving stories, eventually asking for my account number due to bad network. I have yet to see that man again,” she shared.

These accounts highlight a growing trend of “corporate begging” in Enugu, underlining the lengths to which individuals are going to solicit financial assistance amidst the economic challenges faced by the country.

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