In Lagos, Nigeria, the increasing audacity and numbers of hoodlums on the streets have become a source of distress for both motorists and pedestrians. These miscreants, primarily young males, prey upon individuals at night, especially targeting those in poorly lit areas or those whose vehicles have broken down. They demand money and personal items, particularly mobile phones, employing intimidation tactics that often leave their victims with no choice but to comply to avoid physical harm.
The phenomenon is particularly prevalent along major roads and highways such as the Apapa-Oshodi Expressway, and around bus stops, underpasses, and dark streets. Instances of harassment include swarming around immobilized vehicles to extort money and valuables from motorists and passengers. Abiona Ogunwale, a motorist, recounted a harrowing experience where he was coerced into paying N10,000 to a group of over ten boys just to be allowed to push his malfunctioning car to safety.
The areas under bridges, especially at night, have become hotspots for these criminal activities. A trader, preferring anonymity, shared his repeated encounters with these night marauders at the Pen Cinema Bridge in Agege. Initially, the presence of police surveillance seemed to mitigate the situation, but the subsequent withdrawal of law enforcement has allowed the hoodlums to return and continue their nefarious activities unchallenged.
This trader’s personal experiences highlight the modus operandi of these gangs: surrounding their victims and demanding money under the pretense of hunger, with the implicit threat of violence. Fortunately, in his case, a minimal payment and the cover of darkness allowed for a narrow escape.
The persistence of such incidents underscores the urgent need for improved lighting and security measures in these vulnerable areas. While parts of the city benefit from adequate street lighting, deterring criminal activities, other areas remain shrouded in darkness, providing a conducive environment for these hoodlums to operate.
Residents and victims are calling for the reinstatement of streetlights and a consistent law enforcement presence to safeguard the public. Maureen Okechukwu, another resident, narrated her experience of being robbed by two boys who swiftly disappeared into the darkness under a bridge, highlighting the brazenness of these criminals even in proximity to police posts.
In response to the outcry from affected Lagosians, Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotosho, acknowledged the unacceptable nature of such harassment. He assured the public that law enforcement agencies would be directed to intensify their surveillance and interventions in the identified trouble spots. This commitment reflects the government’s recognition of the importance of public safety in fostering a conducive environment for tourism and commerce.
The increasing boldness of hoodlums on Lagos roads has not only inflicted physical and financial pain on individuals but also raised significant concerns about the safety and security of public spaces in Nigeria’s bustling metropolis. As Lagos strives to enhance its status as a hub for commerce and tourism, addressing this menace becomes imperative to ensure the well-being and confidence of its residents and visitors alike.
Source: The Guardian
