By Nchetachi Chukwuajah
Motorists in Lagos State have lamented the wave of extortion of car owners whose vehicles break down on various roads by thugs and street urchins, popularly known as “Area Boys.”
Some netizens recounted their experiences following a now viral tweet on X on October 16 by @YesItsBash, describing it as “one of the worst things” that can happen to anyone.
The tweet read, “But Lagos is a funny place. So your car will break down in certain places and you’ll have to pay off a bunch of lowlifes before they allow you go. Omo.”
The tweet, which has garnered 2.4 million views and many reposts and quotes, sparked reactions, with motorists detailing harrowing experiences ranging from extortion, vandalism to outright robbery.
Recounting her experience, @scarce_moon wrote, “This is becoming a disturbing menace…if your car ever stops anywhere in Lagos now, it becomes a big issue for you in the hands of these people.
“Just from VGC swerving towards the other lane in front of Northwest, my car stopped. See them gathered like insects and start demanding N60,000 before my bonnet will be opened. God, I’ve never seen this kind of crazy people. So if one policeman didn’t come to my rescue, I will be there dealing with 10 of them? Is this the country we want?
Reacting to the tweet, @Elkrosmediahub said, “Lmaoo! There are places your car will break down in Lagos, you are advised to first take your valuables, lock the car and run for safety. Come back later with security personnel and your mechanic, and fix whatever is left of the car.”
@47kasz wrote, “The worst thing that can happen to you in Lagos is your car or Uber case should spoil on the road. Even during the day. Those people will test your street creed.”
@rebitemii said, “In all you do, don’t let your car break down on Lagos road. There are at least three of these hoodlums per square metres ready to pounce on you anywhere, under the sunshine or in the rain.”
@Oluwakemistrie tweeted, “The worst thing that can happen to anyone in Lagos is for your car to break down especially at night. I still remember my experience and it wasn’t even funny.”
@PeterROCK_ added, “One of the worst things to happen is your car to break down in Lagos. There’s always a set of people trying to rob you at different corners.”
Though the Lagos State Police Command and other state agencies have often assured of safety on Lagos roads and allay fears, the series of complaints suggest that the situation is far from abating.
Reacting to the matter, the Lagos State Police Command disclosed on Saturday afternoon that it is aware of the situation regarding street urchins harassing motorists, and decisive action is already underway.
In a statement by the command, it said the Commissioner of Police has directed all tactical units across the state to intensify both foot and vehicular patrols in order to make the streets safer for all residents.
“Residents are strongly encouraged to continue cooperating with the police by providing timely and useful information that can assist ongoing security operations,” The command added.
