The Anambra State government has banned the distribution of gifts and food items in public spaces in the state capital, Awka, particularly under the Aroma Flyover Bridge.

This was indicated in a statement on Thursday signed by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Anambra State Capital Territory Development Authority, Ossy Onuko.

The statement read in part. “The government has closely observed the activities of some content creators, philanthropists, and charity groups who encourage and sustain the indiscriminate roaming of children under the Aroma Bridge by consistently giving out food, drinks, and cash gifts to these kids. As noble and pious as your intentions may be, sadly, they contribute to the defacing of our capital city and endanger the lives of these kids who are at risk of being hit by vehicles, abused by unruly adults, and conscripted into cultism”.

Mr Onuko noted that henceforth charitable acts done in public were illegal, warning that any individual or group caught in the act would be seen as promoting civil disorder and risked prosecution.

He further advised that charitable activities and interventions could be channelled through accredited institutions such as orphanages, care homes, and registered non-governmental organisations where support could be professionally and safely administered to those in need.

He added, “We urge all charitable acts to be channelled through accredited organisations such as orphanages, care homes, and registered non-governmental organisations (NGOs), where support can be professionally administered to those in need or their private homes and spaces that do not constitute a public nuisance.’’

Mr Onuko urged the residents to join hands with the government to maintain order, cleanliness, and dignity of the state capital city.