On August 13, 2024, a shocking incident occurred in Orile, Lagos, where passengers on a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system were violently robbed. The attack took place around 1 pm when a group of thugs, who disguised themselves as protesters against motorcycle seizures, boarded the bus.
The robbers targeted the passengers, seizing their valuables, including money and personal items. Eyewitness Dare Abiola, who was among the victims, described the situation as chaotic and unsettling. The robbery went on for about 20 to 30 minutes, with no sign of intervention from security forces during the entire ordeal.
This attack highlights ongoing security concerns in public transportation systems and the need for better protection measures for commuters.
Abiola said,
“I boarded a BRT bus from Mile 2 going to CMS. When we got to the Odunade bus stop, we noticed a crowd had gathered, and some were marching to the Orile bus stop.
“From what we heard, they said they were going to Orile police station to go and attack some policemen who I learnt had raided some motorcyclists around the Odunade-Coker axis.
“As we moved further, the crowd grew. When we got to the Alafia bus stop, in front of the NNPC fuel station, some guys started breaking the BRT windshield and the windows.
“Personally, they collected my bag and my phone. Before I released the items, they threatened to stab me with a Trophy bottle.”