The Lagos State Police Command has dismantled robbery gangs targeting Uber drivers, apprehending seven suspects from separate gangs.
Among the arrested is a United States returnee accused of murdering an Uber driver to steal his vehicle.
According to the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olarewaju Ishola, the four-man gang ordered an Uber ride on Thursday, January 9, 2025, from Chevron in the Lekki area to Obalende.
Upon reaching a secluded spot in Obalende, the suspects—Emeka Akwara (19), David Segun (21), Samuel Ariori (21), and Lukman Ariori (19)—allegedly stabbed the driver multiple times in the neck, killing him. Their attempt to steal the Toyota Camry was thwarted by passersby, who apprehended two suspects and handed them over to the police. Further investigations led to the arrest of the other two members in the Chevron area.
The deceased’s body has been deposited at the Mainland Hospital Yaba morgue.
In a related development, the police also arrested three suspects—Edmond Julius (34), Abdullahi Umar (32), and Saturday Oke (40)—linked to the murder of another Uber driver three months ago. They confessed to kidnapping and killing Oluwaseyi Fowler in Ajah, stealing his Toyota Camry, and selling the vehicle. The decomposed body of the victim and the stolen car were later recovered.
CP Ishola noted that these incidents mark the third of such crimes targeting Uber drivers in recent months. He advised Uber drivers to prioritize their safety by carrying only one passenger at a time, conducting searches when necessary, and seating passengers in the front seat. Plans to distribute security tips to drivers were also announced.
Security Assessment
Reflecting on Lagos’ security during the Yuletide season, CP Ishola described the state as the safest in Nigeria. He revealed that over 500,000 Nigerians from the diaspora arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport for the holidays, with 90% staying in Lagos without any major security incidents.
“This was possible due to the implementation of directives from the Inspector General of Police, IGP Olukayode Ebetokun, and the logistical support from Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu,” Ishola stated.
Arms Recovery
Between September 2024 and January 2025, the command recovered various arms and ammunition, including AK-47 rifles looted during the EndSARS protests.
CP Ishola commended police officers for their dedication to ensuring Lagos remains safe and urged residents to cooperate with the police to sustain security improvements.
