The Lagos State Police Command has dismantled two robbery gangs responsible for targeting and killing Uber drivers in the state, arresting seven suspects involved in separate crimes.
One of the gangs included four suspects who killed an Uber driver during an attempted car theft on January 9, 2025. According to the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olarewaju Ishola, the suspects ordered the ride at Chevron in Lekki and attacked the driver upon arrival at Obalende around midnight.
“The suspects—Emeka Akwara, 19; David Segun, 21; Samuel Ariori, 21; and Lukman Ariori, 19—stabbed the driver multiple times in the neck in a secluded area. Thankfully, their attempt to steal the vehicle was thwarted by good Samaritans and passersby who intervened. Two suspects were arrested immediately and handed over to police operatives at Lion Building. Further investigation led to the arrest of two others in the Chevron area,” CP Ishola explained.
The victim’s body has been deposited at the Mainland Hospital Yaba morgue.
Another Gang Arrested for Murder
In a separate case, three suspects—Edmond Julius, 34; Abdullahi Umar, 32; and Saturday Oke, 40—were arrested for their involvement in the murder of an Uber driver three months ago. The suspects allegedly kidnapped Oluwaseyi Fowler in the Ajah area, stole his Toyota Camry, and murdered him.
“The suspects confessed to the crime and led the police to recover the decomposed body of the deceased and the stolen vehicle,” CP Ishola said.
He revealed that this was the third reported case of Uber driver murders in three months, though there may be additional unreported cases.
Police Issue Safety Tips for Drivers
In light of these incidents, CP Ishola advised Uber drivers to take extra precautions. He recommended carrying only one passenger at a time, ensuring they are searched, and having them sit in the front seat.
“We are also planning to provide security tips to drivers to prevent them from becoming victims,” he added.
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Lagos Rated Safest State During Yuletide
Despite these troubling incidents, CP Ishola highlighted the state’s overall security achievements during the festive season, calling Lagos the safest state in Nigeria. He noted that over 500,000 Nigerians from the diaspora entered the country through the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, with 90% choosing to stay in Lagos.
“It’s on record that Murtala Muhammed International Airport welcomed over 500,000 diaspora Nigerians. Notably, 90% of them chose to stay within Lagos for their celebrations. The reason is clear: Lagos works, and Lagos is safe,” he stated.
The commissioner attributed this success to the effective implementation of directives from the Inspector General of Police, IGP Olukayode Egbetokun, and support from Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
“I commend my police officers for their unwavering commitment to keeping Lagos safe and humane while performing their duties,” he said.
Arms Recovered
CP Ishola also reported the recovery of several arms and ammunition between September 2024 and January 2025. Among the recovered items were AK-47 rifles stolen during the EndSARS protests.
The Lagos State Police Command continues its efforts to ensure the safety of residents and visitors, while urging the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies.