No argument – Lagos is a metropolis. But this centre of excellence houses some major spots bedevilled with violent crimes which have given the police command in the state much work.
In 2017, a report by Statista revealed that the largest number of crimes in Nigeria were recorded in Lagos. The same year, Lagos registered about 50 thousand crimes, the country’s highest figure.
While the Lagos Neighborhood Safety Corps (LNSC) is doing its bit to work with security agencies to decisively wage war against crime and keep the state safe, one will do well to avoid the following notorious spots in the city as much as possible, especially in the night:
1. Mushin
Notorious for cultism, sudden violent break-outs and armed robbery, Mushin is one of the most notorious crime areas in Lagos. Fights happen so suddenly almost always, and night time brings a whole new level of criminality with it.
2. Ajegunle
Although not as infamous for crimes as it used to be back in the 1990s and early 2000s, Ajegunle is yet to relinquish its status as one of the top ghettos in Lagos, and as such, it is a location of interest for policemen.
It is said that if you have not lived in Ajegunle, then you do not know the jungle life to the core. If you are new here, be warned. it is advised that you do not visit the area, especially at night as you might be a victim of armed robbery, kidnapping or even rape.
3. Bariga
Situated in the heart of Lagos mainland and affiliated with Somolu, Bariga does not need an introduction when it comes to criminality. Gang fights and kidnappings are usual occurrences in this location.
In order not to be a victim of attack, get home before dusk in their area.
4. Oshodi
Despite its recent transformation by the former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode-led administration, Oshodi is still an area that is well-known for pick-pocketing. It is a very dangerous place especially early in the morning and late at night. The case is worse under the bridge.
5. Ikeja
Admitted, Ikeja is a lovely place to be: exotic restaurants great hotels and recreational centres are fond spots the capital of Lagos boasts of. It also houses the Government House, the seat of political power in the state.
But sadly, Ikeja has its baggage of crime spots. For instance, Computer Village Ikeja and Under Bridge Ikeja. Pick-pocketing and armed robbery are rampant in these areas. Therefore, it is very dangerous to be in these locations at night.
6. Mile 2
Bubbling with vehicular and human activities during the day, night transforms Mile 2 into a crime spot where traffic robbery is very common.
7. Fadeyi
Fadeyi is a notorious neighbourhood for armed robbery and other criminal activities, including cultism. The mood of the area can change in a matter of minutes due to rival cult groups engaging in armed fights.
8. Agege
Even residents of Agege live in fear as criminal activities are sure to happen anytime. Raping, murder, and armed robbery are the usual highlights here.
9. Ijora
Highly populated with thugs who effortlessly harass and steal from people, Ijora is a place to be mindful of at night. Also popular for prostitutes, sometimes, inter-tribal fights break out between the Hausas and the Yorubas in Ijora.
10. Igando
Armed robbers have turned a once quiet neighbourhood into one of the most dangerous places in Lagos and Igando residents live in fear daily. People are warned to stay clear of this area, especially at night. During the ENDSARS protest in 2020, a police station was burnt down by hoodlums.
11. Iyana Era
Located off Mile 2-Badagry Expressway, Iyana Era is not far from Federal Government College, Ijanikin. One usual activity here is fighting between cultists. The heavy presence of cybercriminals is also an issue here.
12. Abule-Ado
Not far from Mile 2, Abule-Ado is populated with citizens from almost all tribes in Nigeria. Robbery happens here at night and there are still undiscovered hideouts for criminals in the area, making them hard to track and arrest by policemen.
Other places in Lagos that are unsafe at night include Anibaba and Itu Nla (Ikorodu), Ojelade and Oju Irin (Mushin), Igbo Olomu and Isawo (Ikorodu), Olodi-Apapa, Shibiri (Okokomaiko), Papa and Orile Agege.