How to Be Safe From Kidnapping while traveling on the Road in Nigeria
Kidnapping in parts of Nigeria has worsen with time. Some people now even fear to step out because of fear of being kidnapped. Some of us have heard, some have experienced, how innocent souls were being kidnapped, tortured, defiled, and some even killed.
These monsters in human form abduct persons who have done absolutely nothing to them and ask for ransome in return for the persons' life.
Kidnapping has become one of the major security challenges facing travelers in Nigeria. Across several highways and rural roads, criminals target commuters, private vehicle owners, commercial buses, luxury transport companies, and even students.
These kidnappers target lonely ways, faulty roads, popular highways connecting major cities and far away from police station, and roads close to thick forest.
I know you are here because you want to know how to avoid falling victim of the situation, and trust me, read through to the end and you will learn to be safe from kidnapping.
Although security agencies continue to intensify efforts against kidnappers, travelers must also take personal safety seriously. Knowing the right precautions can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim.
Safety Measures To Avoid Being Kidnapped:
1. Avoid Night Travel
One of the safest decisions you can make is to avoid traveling at night. Most kidnap cases happened during night travel. Travel during the day.
2. Research Your Route
Before embarking on any journey, find out the security condition of the road, especially if the road has had reputation of kidnap case. You can call or stop and ask another coming vehicle.
3. Inform Family or Friends
Tell your trusted close ones your travel plans. This makes it easy to know your whereabout. Do not communicate your travel plan to anybody you see or know.
4. Service Your Vehicle
Imagine trying to outrun danger with a faulty vehicle, or your vehicle breaks down in an isolated area. Make sure your vehicle is reliable.
5. Avoid Displaying Wealth
Do not carry large amounts of cash, luxury watche / necklace that attracts attention while on the road.
6. Stay Alert at All Time
While driving, pay attention to things such as suspicious vehicles, unusual roadblocks, groups hiding near bush or sudden traffic diversions. If you notice any of these, drive to the nearest safe place like police station or public places.
7. Lock Your Doors and Wind Up Windows
Keep your vehicle secured, especially in traffic or unfamiliar areas, and make sure valuables are out of site from the outside.
8. Be Careful at Checkpoints
Kidnappers also make fake check points, and some even wear military uniforms nowadays, which makes matter worst.
Signs of suspicious checkpoints include:
• Shabby or oversized uniform
• Poor lighting
• Aggressive behavior
• No official security vehicles
• Reckless display of weapons (guns, cutlass)
If you suspect danger, calmly turn back if possible or drive toward a populated area.
9. Do Not Pick Up Strangers
Do not pick up random people or stop to help anyone who pose to need help in a lonely way.
11. Avoid Isolated Stops
Do not stop in lonely places to:
• Make phone calls
• Eat food
• Rest unnecessarily
• Defecate or urinate
Use busy filling stations or recognized parks instead.
12. Don't Continue Journey When It Is Late
If caught up by the night while traveling, lodge in a hotel and continue in the morning.
If you had plan to travel a far distance and it is getting late, abort the plan and travel the following day. Don't risk your life.
What to Do During a Kidnapping Attempt
• Stay Calm
If attackers suddenly appear, avoid panic. Rash actions can increase danger or being shot.
• Prioritize Your Life Over Property
Do not resist armed kidnappers aggressively. If money is what they want, give them money. Vehicles and valuables can be replaced; life cannot.
• Look for Safe Escape Opportunities
If there is a clear and safe chance to escape before attackers fully gain control, take it immediately.
Examples include:
• Driving back quickly
• Alerting nearby security officers
• Running toward populated areas
Only attempt escape when it is reasonably safe.
• Memorize Important Details
If possible, quietly observe:
• Number of attackers
• Their appearance
• Vehicle type
• Direction of movement
Such information may help security agencies later.
Important Emergency Contacts in Nigeria
Keep these numbers saved on your phone:
• Nigeria Police Emergency: 112
• Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC): 0806 000 3181
• Local vigilante or community security contacts
• Trusted family members
Having emergency contacts ready can speed up rescue efforts.
Conclusion
In this article, we have provided how to avoid being kidnapped, especially on transit in Nigeria, what to do when you are in the situation, and important emergency enforcement agencies to contact. Take note of every advice and you will not be exposed to kidnapping.
Prevention is better than cure. Stay safe out there.
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