Motorist Recounts Terrifying Roadside Attack On Orile–3rd Mainland Corridor
By Sherif Salau
A Lagos motorist has described a frightening encounter with a group of suspected area boys who allegedly surrounded his vehicle and demanded money while traffic stood still on the Orile–3rd Mainland Road.
A group of young boys surrounded a couple’s car while driving. They struck the vehicle and issued threats, warning they would stab him if he failed to comply. His wife urged him not to wind down the windows or stop the vehicle, suspecting the group was trying to force him into a vulnerable position. The couple managed to navigate through the ordeal without further injury.
The incident reportedly took place in heavy traffic, with other motorists nearby yet unable to intervene. The account has renewed concerns about the safety of road users on one of Lagos’s busiest corridors.
Security experts and transport stakeholders note that open attacks of this nature, carried out in broad daylight amid stationary traffic, undermine public confidence and turn routine commuting into a high-risk activity. When groups can freely surround vehicles, issue threats and demand money without immediate challenge, the environment becomes unstable for both private car owners and commercial operators.
Government intervention is essential to restore order and reassure residents. Swift, coordinated action by the Lagos State Government and security agencies would send a clear signal that such criminal behaviour will not be tolerated. Removing those responsible from the streets, in partnership with their states of origin where appropriate, would help reduce the immediate threat. Visible patrols, rapid response mechanisms and consistent enforcement would further stabilise the corridor, encourage motorists to continue using the route, and support the free movement of people and goods that underpins the city’s economic life.
Until the situation improves, motorists are advised to remain vigilant, keep doors locked, avoid unnecessary confrontation and report suspicious activity promptly. The safety of Lagos roads should never be left to chance.
