Panic is spreading across Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, as ‘one-chance’ criminal gangs continue to wreak havoc—robbing, abducting, and killing innocent passengers, mostly women.

These criminal syndicates operate under the guise of commercial taxis, only to attack unsuspecting commuters, often robbing them and throwing them out of moving vehicles. Despite previous government assurances, this trend is on the rise again, leaving residents terrified and angry.

Just this past week, three women lost their lives in separate suspected one-chance attacks. One of them was Grace Godwin, a petrol station attendant who was found severely injured near Jabi and later confirmed dead at the National Hospital, Abuja. Security sources say she was likely abducted, attacked, and pushed from a moving car.

In another tragic case, Freda Arnong, a staff member of the Ghanaian High Commission, died after a horrifying encounter with suspected one-chance robbers. She boarded a commercial taxi at Transcorp Junction, but instead of heading toward her destination, the driver diverted toward Lugbe-Airport Road, where she was brutally assaulted and later thrown out. She was rescued and rushed to the hospital but didn’t survive.

The violence hasn’t stopped. Authorities are still trying to identify a female victim found unconscious along Kubwa–Deidei Road on July 8, who remains in the ICU of the National Hospital with no known family members yet contacted.

Another lucky survivor is Miss Ruth Isaiku, a corps member serving at the National Assembly, who was attacked and dumped by the roadside near Maitama. She was rescued by a good Samaritan and is currently recovering.

These incidents have sparked fear and outrage among Abuja residents, who now see riding commercial taxis as a life-or-death gamble. Many believe women are being deliberately targeted, and the lack of arrests or clear security strategies is deepening public frustration.

A school teacher, Mike Divine, expressed concern:

“At this point, I don’t know what the security agencies are doing. These criminals seem to move freely, despite the many checkpoints around.”

Ogbonna Joel, who lost a cousin to the same crime, added:

“It’s heartbreaking. Families like mine have been left in pain. Something urgent must be done.”

Social media is also buzzing with calls for government action. Many are urging the police, DSS, and lawmakers to treat the issue as a national emergency. Some even recommend life imprisonment for convicted one-chance criminals.

When reached for comment, FCT Police spokesperson Josephine Adeh voiced her frustration:

“I’m tired of answering questions on this ‘one-chance’ incident. We’re working on solutions—if anyone has suggestions, bring them forward.”

But for now, Abuja residents are watching their backs, double-checking taxis, and hoping they won’t be the next victims.

Safety Tips for Commuters in Abuja:

Avoid entering unpainted or unregistered taxis.

Share trip details with friends/family when using taxis or ride-hailing apps.

Enter vehicles at designated taxi parks, not roadside stops.

If you feel unsafe, do not board—trust your instincts.

The streets of Abuja shouldn’t be a danger zone. Authorities must act now to restore trust, safety, and sanity to Nigeria’s capital city.