Beware of one chance robbers in Lagos

Beware of One Chance Robbers in Lagos Island: What You Need to Know

Lagos is one of the busiest and most vibrant cities in Africa. From its booming markets to tech startups and nightlife, the city never sleeps. But beneath the energy and opportunity lies a darker reality: “One Chance” robbers.

These criminals disguise themselves as public transport operators—drivers and conductors in commercial buses or taxis—only to rob unsuspecting passengers. While "One Chance" incidents can occur anywhere in Lagos, Lagos Island has seen a rise in cases due to its daily influx of workers, tourists, and business people.

🚨 What Is “One Chance”?

“One Chance” is a slang term in Nigeria that refers to criminals who use public transport vehicles to lure and rob passengers. They often pretend to be genuine commercial drivers, sometimes with collaborators acting as fake passengers. Once the victim boards, they are overpowered, threatened, or drugged and then robbed—sometimes even physically harmed or dumped in remote areas.

📍 Hotspots on Lagos Island to Be Cautious Around

Although no area is completely safe, the following locations have been reported as hotspots for “One Chance” activity on Lagos Island:

CMS (Marina area)

Obalende

Ikoyi-Lekki link bridge terminals

Adeniji Adele under-bridge

Ajah and Jakande junctions (especially during rush hours)

🚦 Common Tactics Used by One Chance Robbers

1. Fake Rush/“Last Seat” Trick: The driver pretends the bus is almost full, prompting the victim to rush in. Once in, the vehicle diverts or locks its doors.

2. Friendly or Quiet Fake Passengers: Collaborators posing as normal passengers to lower your guard.

3. Sudden Route Change: Midway through the trip, the driver takes an unfamiliar or isolated route.

4. Drugged Seat Tactics: Some use drug-laced handkerchiefs, water bottles, or even sprayed substances to knock passengers out.

5. Targeting Bank Cards and Phones: Victims are often forced to reveal their PINs and online banking credentials.

✅ How to Avoid Falling Victim

1. Use Designated Parks or BRT Stations

Always enter buses from recognized terminals or garages like CMS BRT Terminal, Obalende Terminal, or Ajah Park.

2. Avoid Boarding Along the Roadside

Random roadside pickups are risky, especially early in the morning or late at night.

3. Don’t Enter Nearly Empty Vehicles

Genuine commercial buses usually fill up at parks. Be cautious of buses with just a few people pretending to be passengers.

4. Keep Valuables Out of Sight

Don’t flash your phone, jewelry, or cash. Carry only what you need.

5. Trust Your Instincts

If something feels off—get down. It’s better to lose time than to lose your safety.

6. Share Your Trip Details

If using ride-hailing apps like Bolt or Uber, share your trip status with a trusted contact.

🗣️ What to Do If You Suspect a One Chance Vehicle

Don’t Enter: Walk away, even if the conductor pressures you.

Alert Others Nearby: Raise your voice to get public attention if you’re suspicious.

Report Immediately: Report incidents to the nearest police station or community vigilante group.

🧠 Final Thought

Lagos Island is full of life, but it also requires street wisdom. One Chance robbers are cunning, but with the right knowledge and caution, you can outsmart them. Stay alert, trust your instincts, and never trade safety for speed.