The rising security threat known as “One Chance” in Abuja has become a serious concern that demands immediate attention. “One Chance” refers to a deceptive practice where unsuspecting individuals are lured into vehicles under the pretense of offering them a ride, either paid or free. Once inside, these victims find themselves in dangerous situations, often robbed of their belongings, and sometimes violently attacked, leaving them injured or even dead.
This alarming trend has been reported frequently, underscoring the need for increased vigilance among residents and visitors. Originally, the perpetrators operated primarily in busy areas like Area One Roundabout and Berger bus stops, but now these criminals have spread their operations across various mini and major bus stops, preying on unsuspecting commuters. It is crucial for everyone to be aware of their tactics to avoid becoming a victim.
By raising awareness about the “One Chance” security issue, we can work together to foster a safer environment in Abuja. It is essential for citizens to share their experiences and educate one another on how to recognize these dangerous situations. Through collective vigilance and proactive measures, we can protect ourselves and our communities from this growing threat.
This insidious scheme preys on unsuspecting individuals, particularly those using public transport. Criminals posing as passengers create an illusion of normalcy, making it harder for victims to realize the danger they are in until it’s too late. Once inside, they may engage the victim in casual conversation to lower their guard, making the situation seem harmless.
What makes this scam especially concerning is the organized and calculated method by which the criminals operate. They often work in pairs or groups, using distraction tactics to facilitate robbery. Victims are commonly stripped of their belongings—phones, wallets, and valuables—before being dumped at an isolated location. The criminals are brazen enough to operate in both private and commercial vehicles, including those that are officially licensed with the Abuja commercial color (green), making it hard to distinguish legitimate transport from a potential “One Chance” vehicle.
More troubling is the fact that even e-hailing services such as Uber, Bolt, and Indrive are not exempt from this crime. There have been cases where victims who booked rides through these platforms ended up being robbed by drivers.
Juliet, a survivor of four different “One Chance” incidents, recounted her harrowing experiences. The first time, she was on her way to Mpape from Berger when she boarded what seemed like a regular taxi. The driver and another passenger, who quickly boarded and alighted after paying with a foreign currency, tried to involve her in a fake story about an electronics shipment. Sensing something was off, Juliet quickly got out, narrowly avoiding a potentially dangerous situation.
Another encounter took place at Jahi Junction, where Juliet boarded a taxi with passengers who fabricated a story about a bag full of dollars in the boot. Recognizing the scam after some back-and-forth conversation, she once again removed herself from the situation just in time.
Not all victims are as fortunate. Jennifer, another victim, wasn’t so lucky. After unknowingly entering a “One Chance” taxi at Area 1, she realized the criminals were speaking in her native language, plotting to rob her. Despite trying to negotiate with them by appealing to their shared ethnicity, they showed no mercy. She was beaten, robbed of all her possessions, and eventually thrown out of the moving vehicle.
Juliet’s most devastating experience happened last November when she fell victim to a new tactic. After getting into a taxi at Area 3 Junction, the passenger beside her refused to adjust, causing the driver to offer to help close the door. Innocent to their ploy, Juliet later realized that during the confusion, they had stolen her wireless MiFi and torchlight phone.
Stories like these continue to surface, with many victims being left traumatized and stripped of their possessions. One such account involved a woman who was beaten and dropped near Kaduna Road after being robbed on her way to Gwarimpa.
There are several telltale signs of a potential “One Chance” situation, and recognizing them could save you from becoming a victim:
- Engaging in Conversation: Criminals often start casual conversations to lower your guard. Don’t get drawn in—remain alert.
- The “Money in the Boot” Scam: This classic trick involves claims about large sums of money in the vehicle’s boot. Avoid becoming involved in these discussions.
- Electronic or Container Goods Story: Be wary of passengers who spin tales about electronics or container shipments. It’s often a setup.
- We Can Wash Money: Some scams involve promises of “washing” money to increase its value. Don’t fall for it.
- Driver Helping to Close the Door: If a driver insists on helping you close the door from the front seat, this could be a distraction technique to steal your belongings.
Efforts to address the “One Chance” menace have been inconsistent at best. Multiple attempts to reach the Nigerian Police, specifically the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the FCT Police Command, DSP Josephine Adeh, for a response to this pressing issue were unsuccessful. This lack of communication and response only intensifies the public’s frustration and concern.
While some security measures have been implemented, the effectiveness of these actions remains questionable. The authorities need to take more proactive steps, such as increasing patrols, installing surveillance at key locations, and providing hotlines for immediate reporting of “One Chance” incidents.
Understanding how the “One Chance” scam operates is critical to prevention. Awareness is your first line of defense—always be vigilant when entering any vehicle and trust your instincts if something feels off. By staying informed and educating others, we can create a safer environment in Abuja. Share these stories, learn from them, and take precautions. Remember, “it’s better to be safe than sorry.”
