By Emiola Osifeso
A crowd of concerned residents and commuters gathered this morning in central Abuja to launch the #EndOneChanceInAbuja campaign, a protest movement aimed at curbing the dangerous “One-Chance” robberies plaguing the city’s public transit system.
One of the organisers, speaking through the Abuja PR blog, said: “Today, we addressed the media and key stakeholders about the #EndOneChancelnAbuja campaign, an awareness initiative focused on restoring safety and trust in public transportation across the city. We’re not just talking about the problem, we’re driving the solution. From secure pick-up points to verified drivers, this is about protecting lives.”
The “One-Chance” phenomenon refers to violent, often deadly robberies orchestrated by criminals posing as drivers or even fellow passengers who lure victims into unregulated vehicles and rob or harm them before forcing them out at remote locations. The situation has escalated sharply in Abuja, prompting investigations and public outrage.
The protest coincides with recent law-enforcement efforts, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command arresting five suspected members of a “One-Chance” gang in Abuja. These arrests followed a case in which officers rescued a victim from being pushed out of a moving taxi.
Critics point to systemic flaws, weak regulation, limited police presence, and dwindling confidence in informal transit systems. In response, advocacy and creative solutions have emerged. Musician and activist Frequencie (Ayokanmi Eyanro) called on the FCT Administration to deploy digital tools such as CCTV, driver registration databases, and affordable mass transit options to counter the menace.
Testimonies continue to surface across media platforms. A citizen recounting one such ordeal told RoadKing.ng: “I entered a green painted taxi from Nyanya to Area 1… they locked the doors, threatened me with a knife, and collected my phone, ATM card, and PIN. They dropped me around Apo with nothing.” Another tragedy included the reported killing of a young woman, her family has since demanded justice and a safer transport system.
Calls for reform are becoming louder. Protesters insist the FCT must prioritize:
- Secure, government-designated pickup points
- Mandatory verification for ride operators
- Technological oversight (e.g., verified ride apps, CCTV at stations)
- Increased funding and coordination for rapid police response
As the demonstration continues in Abuja today, participants emphasize the need for collaboration between civil society, transport unions, officials, and security agencies. Their message: “Public transit should never endanger lives—action, not words, is what will restore trust.”
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