- Nigeria has witnessed a surge in violent crimes, including kidnappings, thefts, and murders
- Different factors contribute to this, including economic hardship, insurgency, and ethnoreligious conflicts
- Here are safety tips you can adopt to avoid kidnapping or theft
In recent times, Nigeria has witnessed a concerning surge in violent crimes, including kidnappings, thefts, and murders.
Data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reveals a staggering 614,937 murder cases reported in 2024 alone.
The alarming trend underscores the urgent need for individuals to adopt proactive safety measures in their daily lives.
While we can’t control every situation, we can take proactive steps to minimise risks and protect ourselves.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to staying safe and avoiding life-threatening situations:
1. Personal safety
Your first line of defence is awareness. Criminals often target those who seem distracted, unaware, or vulnerable. Here’s how to stay ahead:
- Avoid routine movement: Criminals study patterns. If you take the same route at the same time every day, switch it up occasionally.
- Be cautious of strangers: Not everyone who appears friendly has good intentions. If someone seems overly interested in your movements, trust your instincts.
- Stay off your phone in unfamiliar places: Walking while glued to your screen reduces awareness and makes you an easy target.
- Carry a personal safety tool: Items like a whistle, pepper spray, or a loud alarm can deter an attacker.
2. Home security
Home invasions and burglaries happen when criminals spot an easy entry. Strengthen your home security with these tips:
- Use strong locks and security doors: Upgrade to reinforced doors and deadbolt locks. Always double-check that doors and windows are locked before bed.
- Install security cameras and alarms: Visible surveillance cameras can deter intruders. Motion-sensor lights around your home also add an extra layer of security.
- Be careful with visitors: Avoid letting strangers into your home, even if they claim to be repair workers or delivery agents. Always verify their identity.
- Don’t overshare your location: Avoid posting your home address or real-time location on social media. Criminals use this information to plan attacks.
3. Travel safety
Whether commuting to work or travelling long distances, your safety is key. Here’s how to stay safe while on the move:
- Use trusted transportation services: Always opt for verified ride-hailing apps or known transport providers. Avoid accepting rides from strangers.
- Share your travel details: Let a trusted friend or family member know your movements, especially at night.
- Sit strategically in public transport: Avoid sitting in isolated corners. If you feel uncomfortable, switch seats or exit at a safe location.
- Avoid wearing flashy items: Expensive jewellery, gadgets, and cash can make you a target for thieves. Keep valuables hidden.
4. Digital security
Criminals now use social media and digital platforms to track victims. To stay safe online:
- Avoid sharing personal details: Don’t post travel plans, home addresses, or daily routines on social media.
- Use strong passwords: Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your banking, email, and social media accounts to prevent hacking.
- Be wary of online friendships: Scammers and kidnappers use fake identities to lure victims into traps. Verify before meeting anyone from the internet.
- Report suspicious online behaviour: If someone threatens or harasses you online, report them to the platform and, if necessary, the authorities.
Emergency response: What to do in dangerous situations
If you ever find yourself in a high-risk situation, quick thinking can save your life. Here’s what to do:
- If you suspect you’re being followed: Enter a crowded area, call someone, or head to the nearest police station.
- If caught in a robbery: Stay calm, avoid sudden movements, and comply if necessary. Never resist if the attacker has a weapon.
- If faced with a kidnapping attempt: Make noise, resist aggressively in public spaces, and if taken, leave clues (like personal items) along the way to help rescuers track you.
- Have emergency contacts on speed dial: Save local emergency numbers and a trusted contact as quick-dial options.
Please note: Staying safe requires a mix of awareness, smart habits, and preparation. These are tips to help you reduce the risk. While we can’t predict crime, minimising the risk helps, by staying alert and making security a daily priority.
Stampede: How to avoid tragedies at your event
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier compiled some actionable steps to prevent stampedes at your event and ensure the safety of attendees.
The stampedes in Abuja, Ibadan, and Okija that resulted in 67 deaths, including 35 children, highlighted the urgent need for event organisers to prioritise safety and crowd control measures.