Abuja’s Growing ‘One Chance’ Menace Draws Urgent Call for Government Action

By Babatunji Wusu

• The Federal Capital Territory Authority (FCTA), led by Minister Nyesom Wike, faces increasing pressure to address the alarming rise of ‘One Chance’ kidnappings and extortion targeting unsuspecting passengers in Abuja.

• Afro Pop Star and social justice advocate Frequencie condemned the surge of these crimes, urging stronger security measures and better protection for residents.

• Victims are frequently trapped by criminals posing as legitimate commercial drivers, exploiting high transport fares caused by subsidy removals to lure commuters with cheaper rides.

• Frequencie called for mandatory registration of commercial vehicle owners and the introduction of an affordable mass transit system to reduce reliance on risky informal transport.

• Recent incidents, including abductions and tragic deaths such as that of 23-year-old Grace Godwin, highlight the deadly nature of the ‘One Chance’ syndicates operating in the capital, prompting public outcry for enhanced policing and regulation.

The ‘One Chance’ menace, involving criminals who masquerade as commercial transport operators to kidnap, rob, and extort passengers, has escalated significantly in Abuja. FCTA Minister Nyesom Wike is tasked with strengthening collaboration among security agencies to curb this threat. Social justice voices like Frequencie highlight how socioeconomic factors, such as rising transport costs, exacerbate the vulnerability of commuters to this predatory crime.

There have been several tragic outcomes, with victims like Grace Godwin, a young fuel attendant kidnapped and killed in suspected ‘One Chance’ operations, underscoring the urgency for government intervention. Enhanced regulation of commercial vehicles, combined with affordable mass transit solutions, are seen as critical steps to protect residents and dismantle the criminal networks exploiting the city’s transport vulnerabilities.

Security forces have begun increased efforts to apprehend perpetrators, but community calls for sustained and coordinated action remain strong to restore safety in Abuja’s transport ecosystem.