Residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, have expressed growing concerns over the increasing rate of motor vehicle theft and related crimes across key parts of the city.
An Abuja-based X user, identified as “OBI OF ABUJA,” recently warned residents to remain vigilant and prioritize their safety, particularly during late-night movements.
According to him, several roads and areas within Abuja become dark and isolated at night, creating opportunities for criminal activities. He noted that one of the most common crimes in the city involves criminals posing as commercial drivers, including taxi operators and riding service drivers such as Uber and Bolt operators.
He further warned motorists against stopping in vulnerable locations due to the risk of attacks by armed robbers and other criminal elements.
He wrote:
“Late night movements aren’t advisable,if you must go out,ensure you know those you are hanging out with and you tell people where you are going to.”
However, the post has since sparked widespread reactions online, with several users sharing similar experiences of vehicle theft and robbery incidents in Abuja and other parts of the country.
One user recounted a recent incident involving a vehicle theft at gunpoint.
He wrote:
“Plus the car thefts. I went for alignment, and the technician said that a few days earlier, around 8 p.m., one of his workers went on a test drive with a customer when armed men intercepted them and stole the vehicle. Another similar incident occurred there a few days before that. Don’t park your car in unguarded areas; they will rob you,”
However, another commenter warned motorists to be cautious of staged accidents.
“Some people will intentionally hit your vehicle during the day or at night. Once you come down to argue or inspect the damage, the same individuals may rob you at gunpoint. Stay guarded and guided in this city. Things are getting worse,” the user added.
Sharing a personal experience, another resident revealed how he narrowly escaped a car-snatching attempt in broad daylight.
“I survived a car-snatching incident almost two years ago. I was parked near Berger Bridge in broad daylight, using my phone, when four people suddenly approached my vehicle from different directions and attempted to open the doors. Fortunately, the car was locked, and I immediately drove away,” he wrote.
The growing number of such reports has intensified calls for increased vigilance among residents and stronger security measures to curb criminal activities within the nation’s capital.
By Musekir Faisat Omolara
