Alms-Begging and Human Right in Yoruba Land

Abstract

Existing studies claimed that begging activities in South-western Nigeria are encouraged largely by cultural influences and uneven distri ution of the n tion‟s resources. They further claim that the cultural activities re tr ce le to the or system which encourages mothers of twins to sing and dance for money. This paper investigates the claims by dr wing insights from the i le, Qur‟ n, f Literary Corpus, nd relev nt or proverbs. Findings show, among other things, that the claim about cultural influence, nonprovision of free education, and failure of the Nigerian government to break the cycle of poverty as the causes of alms-begging are mere excuses. The practice of polygamy with its attendant indiscriminate procreation among Nigerians is the major cause of alms-begging in the nation. It argues that any suggestion to improve the economy of Nigeria as well as economically empower individuals in the country will be a mirage or an exercise in futility if the problem caused by polygamy and indiscriminate procreation is not addressed.