Lagos Police Dismantle Robbery Gangs Targeting Uber Drivers; Seven Suspects Arrested
The Lagos State Police Command has successfully dismantled two robbery gangs that specifically targeted Uber drivers, leading to the arrest of seven individuals believed to be connected to various criminal activities.
One of the gangs, consisting of four members, included a returnee from the United States who was involved in a violent incident that resulted in the death of an Uber driver while attempting to steal his Toyota Camry on January 9, 2025. The suspects, identified as Emeka Akwara, 19; David Segun, 21; Samuel Ariori, 21; and Lukman Ariori, 19, ordered an Uber ride in the Chevron area of Lekki, with the intention of traveling to Obalende around midnight.
Upon reaching a secluded area in Obalende, they turned on the driver, stabbing him multiple times in the neck. Fortunately, their attempt to steal the vehicle was thwarted by the quick actions of good Samaritans and passersby, leading to the immediate arrest of two suspects who were handed over to police operatives at Lion Building. Further investigations resulted in the apprehension of two additional suspects in the Chevron vicinity. The victim’s body has been taken to the Mainland Hospital morgue in Yaba.
In a separate investigation, three other suspects—Edmond Julius, 34; Abdullahi Umar, 32; and Saturday Oke, 40—were arrested in connection with a similar crime that took place three months earlier. The trio confessed to the kidnapping and murder of another Uber driver, Oluwaseyi Fowler, in the Ajah area, during which they stole his Toyota Camry. They later sold the vehicle and guided police to the recovery of the decomposed body of the deceased.
This incident marks a disturbing pattern, with this being the third such case reported in three months. In response to these alarming developments, Commissioner of Police for Lagos State, CP Olarewaju Ishola, has urged Uber drivers to prioritize safety by limiting their passengers to one at a time, enforcing passenger searches, and having them sit in the front seat. Additionally, he promised the implementation of security awareness initiatives for drivers to help prevent future crimes.
During a media briefing on security during the holiday season, CP Ishola assessed the overall safety of Lagos, declaring it the most secure state in Nigeria. He noted that over 500,000 Nigerians from the diaspora traveled through Murtala Mohammed International Airport to celebrate the holidays, with approximately 90% choosing to stay in Lagos—something he attributed to the city’s safety and vibrancy.
“It’s been documented that Murtala Muhammed International Airport welcomed over 500,000 Nigerians during this festive period, with a significant number opting to remain in Lagos. This is a testament to the city’s appeal and security,” he stated, commending the support from Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the dedicated service of the police force.
CP Ishola also highlighted that, from September 2024 to the present, numerous arms and ammunition have been confiscated, including AK-47 rifles that were taken during the EndSARS protests, reinforcing the commitment of the command to enhance public safety in Lagos.
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