Many people might assume that Abuja, as Nigeria’s seat of government, enjoys a high level of security. However, the reality is quite different. Like many cities in Nigeria, Abuja has its share of dangerous neighborhoods. According to the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics, Abuja has the second-highest crime rate in Nigeria, following Lagos. Despite its rapid development, there has been a troubling rise in criminal activities. Below is a list of the top 10 Dangerous Places in Abuja, which you might want to avoid.
Top 10 Most Dangerous Areas in Abuja
- Wuse Market
Located in the Wuse District, Wuse Market is Abuja’s primary market. Residents report frequent thefts, including bags, phones, and laptops, particularly at night. Criminals often disguise themselves as traders or taxi drivers, making it difficult for victims to identify them. Many have described the area as becoming increasingly lawless, with numerous robberies reported. - Bolingo Junction
Situated near the Bolingo Hotel and Towers, this area has seen a rise in crimes such as bag snatching and phone theft. Hoodlums exploit traffic signals and speed bumps to target motorists and pedestrians, particularly at night. Reports indicate that criminals utilize nearby bushes for escape after committing their crimes. - Masalachi Junction
This junction connects key roads in the Central Business District but has gained notoriety for crimes against women, particularly at night. Although there have been arrests, the area remains risky, with hoodlums often targeting unsuspecting female pedestrians. - Dantata Bridge
Connecting Galadimawa roundabout to the airport road, Dantata Bridge is known for robberies. Criminals target victims late at night, often employing violence to steal belongings. The dense vegetation surrounding the area provides cover for criminal activities. - Area 1 Roundabout (Garki)
Despite being close to the Nigerian Police Mobile Force headquarters, Area 1 Roundabout has become a hotspot for robberies, especially under the bridge during late hours. Residents have expressed concern about their safety, prompting police assurances of increased security measures. - Apo Roundabout
This busy bus stop is notorious for crimes such as rape, sexual harassment, and theft. Criminals often emerge from the hills nearby to target victims. Despite police interventions, the area remains dangerous, with reports of ongoing criminal activities. - Airport Road
As one of Abuja’s busiest routes, Airport Road has seen a surge in crime. Many victims have reported being robbed after their vehicles broke down. Some have faced armed robberies, with assailants often escaping quickly. - Julius Berger Junction
Known as the “One Chance Zone,” this junction is infamous for quick robberies. Criminals frequently use the bus stop to target unsuspecting passengers, leading to numerous accounts of theft and even assaults. - Mabushi/Jabi Bridges
Although Mabushi is a well-developed area, the bridges connecting it to other parts of Abuja can be dangerous at night. Criminals have been known to target pedestrians, making these bridges risky after dark. - Area 1 Junction (Reiterated)
This important junction, which links several districts, has also been a site of frequent robberies, particularly under the bridge. Residents have consistently reported safety concerns, especially during late hours.
Conclusion
Despite Abuja being the capital city of Nigeria, not all areas are safe for residents. Increasingly, certain neighborhoods are becoming hotspots for crime, particularly at night. The rise in theft, snatching of valuables, and even violent attacks has raised alarms among the population. As one of Nigeria’s most populous cities, Abuja faces challenges related to crime, and residents are advised to stay alert, especially in the identified 10 Dangerous Places areas.
