Rising One-Chance Attacks in Abuja Spark Panic as Women Become Prime Targets
written by daniel okafor (Dated July 19, 2025):
Fear Grips Abuja Residents as Deadly One-Chance Syndicates Terrorize the Capital
Abuja, Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT), is witnessing a disturbing surge in criminal activity as ‘one-chance’ robbery syndicates continue to wreak havoc, especially targeting female commuters. The growing insecurity has sparked widespread panic and criticism of the authorities’ inability to curb the menace.
Reports gathered in recent weeks reveal a spike in abductions, robberies, and fatalities linked to these syndicates, who disguise themselves as commercial taxi operators to lure unsuspecting passengers, only to rob, assault, and in some cases, kill them.
Three Women Killed Within a Week
In just one week, three women have been confirmed dead in separate but similar incidents across the city. The most recent victim, Grace Godwin, a petrol station attendant, was found lifeless on Saturday, July 12, near the Jabi area. She was allegedly pushed out of a moving vehicle by ‘one-chance’ criminals.
Security expert Zagazola Makama confirmed that detectives from the Jabi Police Division rushed her to National Hospital, Abuja, where she was pronounced dead on arrival. Her case is being treated as abduction and possible homicide.
Ghanaian Diplomat Dies After Boarding One-Chance Taxi
Just days before, Miss Freda Arnong, an official of the Ghanaian High Commission, died after boarding a taxi at Transcorp Junction. The vehicle reportedly diverted toward Lugbe-Airport Road, where she was brutalized and dumped. She later died at National Hospital.
Her tragic death sparked outrage and prompted a flurry of public outcries, especially from diplomatic and civil society communities demanding urgent action.
Unknown Woman Hospitalized After Nighttime Attack
Adding to the wave of concern, the National Hospital Abuja issued a statement on July 11, appealing for public help in identifying an unconscious female patient admitted to the Trauma Intensive Care Unit. She was found along Kubwa–Deidei Road at around 10:30 PM on July 8 after what is believed to be another one-chance incident.
The hospital urged anyone with information to come forward to help reunite her with her family.
NYSC Member Attacked and Dumped
Another victim, Miss Ruth Isaiku, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member serving at the National Assembly, narrowly escaped death after boarding a taxi from the Kubwa axis en route to Keffi, Nasarawa State. She was robbed and left by the roadside. Fortunately, she was rescued by a Good Samaritan and is currently recovering at Maitama District Hospital.
Public Outrage Mounts Over Insecurity
Many Abuja residents are raising serious concerns over the continued rise of violent crimes in the city. Mike Divine, a school teacher, lamented that the crimes appear to be deliberately targeting women.
“What are the security operatives in the FCT doing? The deaths keep piling up while the criminals operate freely,” he said.
Another resident, Ogbonna Joel, shared his personal pain, recalling how his cousin was also murdered by one-chance robbers last year.
“I am heartbroken. This young woman’s death brings back the trauma of my cousin’s murder. Families are suffering in silence,” he said.
Emeka Chukwudi called the situation a normalized tragedy in Abuja, stating that women, in particular, are no longer safe using public transport in the capital.
“Are the police even tracking this? Are national dailies doing enough to report these brutal crimes?” he asked.
Calls for National Legislative Action
Security advocates and concerned citizens are urging the National Assembly to pass laws imposing life imprisonment for anyone convicted of one-chance robbery, citing recent incidents, including one in which a lawmaker’s aide fell victim.
Security expert Peter Echo said:
“The police and DSS must form a joint task force to dismantle these criminal gangs. Enough is enough.”
Police Reaction
When contacted, FCT Police Command spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, expressed frustration over the persistent security questions.
“I am tired of answering questions on this ‘one-chance’ issue. We’re actively working on solutions. If anyone has a viable one, we’re open to it,” she said.
Security Advisory
Authorities are advising residents to avoid entering unmarked or suspicious vehicles, especially at night, and to use verified ride-hailing services whenever possible. Citizens are also urged to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police division promptly.
Published by SpringnewsNG Media Limited
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