10 most dangerous bus stops in Lagos, how to stay safe

By Nehru Odeh

Helena Nelson Ikoi, a multi-talented actress and television presenter, recently pointed out 10 of the most dangerous bus stops in Lagos on her Facebook page. She also provided tips on how to stay safe at these bus stops. Although the list is not exhaustive, her effort will serve as a guide.

The 10 bus stops she noted are:

1. Oshodi Under Bridge
2. Iyana Ipaja
3. Mile 2
4. Berger Bus Stop
5. CMS
6. Ojota Bridge
7. Ojuelegba
8. Iyana Oworo
9. Ajah
10. Lekki-Epe Expressway

Other netizens who commended her for her detailed report also added some hotspots, such as Ikeja Under Bridge, Iyana Iba, Ikotun, and Obalende.

A common feature of these bus stops is that they are always overcrowded with passengers and vehicles, creating an environment conducive to crime. Criminals take advantage of the rowdy situation to target unsuspecting victims, mostly visitors referred to as “JJC” (Johnny Just Come).

Another notable feature of these bus stops is the presence of vehicles, both commercial and private, often without traffic control. They are also filled with traders, hawkers who make brisk business, and touts, popularly referred to as “agberos,” who engage in harmful activities such as smoking Indian hemp and consuming alcohol. The air is often filled with the acrid smell of Indian hemp and alcohol.

Here is Helena Nelson Ikoi’s detailed report:

LAGOS: A City That Never Sleeps, But with Its Bustling Energy Comes Crime Hotspots You Should Never Ignore

Whether you’re rushing to work, and stuck in traffic, or waiting for a bus, some Lagos bus stops are notorious for robberies, pickpockets, and even kidnappings. Here’s a list of some of the most dangerous bus stops in Lagos and what really happens there:

1. Oshodi Under Bridge – Pickpocket Central: Pickpockets operate in broad daylight, targeting phones, cash, wallets, and even gold chains. Be wary of “fake fights,” which are distractions to steal from you.
2. Iyana Ipaja – “One-Chance” Zone: This area is notorious for “one-chance” robbery buses. Victims are lured into commercial buses only to be robbed of cash, phones, and sometimes forced to withdraw money from ATMs. Never enter half-filled buses, especially early in the morning or at night.
3. Mile 2 – Robbery Hotspot: Known for its endless traffic, Mile 2 is where traffic robbers strike. They smash car windows, snatch bags, and vanish before anyone reacts. The worst time is during evening rush hours and early mornings.
4. Berger Bus Stop – Night Movement Risks: Berger may look calm during the day, but at night, it’s risky for passengers walking to connect interstate buses. Reports of bag snatching and phone theft are frequent. Also, beware of fake “local government enforcement touts” who prey on unsuspecting Nigerians who park recklessly by the roadside to pick passengers.
5. CMS – Beware of Fake Agberos: CMS is full of fake touts (agberos) who pose as transport assistants. They trick passengers, collect fake fares, and sometimes work with pickpockets.
6. Ojota Bridge – Kidnappers’ Den?: Although not as bad as before, Ojota Bridge has seen several kidnapping reports, especially involving unsuspecting passengers entering private cars pretending to be commercial vehicles.
7. Ojuelegba – Cult Clashes and Chaos: Ojuelegba is chaotic, with frequent cult clashes that sometimes spill into the streets. Robbers take advantage of this confusion to pick pockets and snatch bags.
8. Iyana Oworo – Sudden Bag Snatching, One-Chance Operators: Located near the Third Mainland Bridge, Iyana Oworo is a notorious bag-snatching spot, especially during traffic jams. Beware of okada riders who grab bags and speed off.
9. Ajah – Late-Night Street Boys: Ajah is developing fast, but its late-night streets are dangerous. Street boys attack commuters waiting for buses, especially near Ajah Under Bridge.
10. Lekki-Epe Expressway (Jakande Area) – Road Traps: The Jakande area along the Lekki-Epe Expressway is infamous for road traps. Criminals sometimes create fake traffic jams just to rob cars and unsuspecting passengers.

How to Stay Safe at Lagos Bus Stops:

– Avoid entering half-filled or suspicious buses (“one-chance”).
– Hold your bag tightly in crowded areas.

-Don’t use your phone carelessly in traffic or at bus stops.

-Travel early or in groups when possible.

-Trust your instincts; if a bus or area feels unsafe, leave immediately.

-Listen to music only when you’re safely in a bus and on your way to the destination, not by the bus stop.

-As a woman, never enter a Keke or bus that is filled with men.

Be aware.
Be wise.
Stay Safe.