Crime in Nigeria

[Richard Akindele]

The Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens that the lack of law and order in Nigeria poses considerable risks to travelers. Violent crime committed by ordinary criminals, as well as by persons in police and military uniforms, can occur throughout the country. Kidnapping for ransom of persons associated with the petroleum sector, including U.S. citizens, remains common in the Niger Delta area.

Religious tension between some Muslim and Christian communities results in occasional acts of isolated communal violence. The states of Kano and Kaduna are particularly volatile. Rival ethnic groups have clashed violently in the Niger Delta region around Warri city and in Southeast Plateau State. Senior al-Qaida leadership has expressed interest publically in overthrowing the government of Nigeria.

Road travel is dangerous, with robberies by armed gangs reported on rural roads and within major cities. Travelers should avoid driving at night. Because of poor vehicle maintenance and driving conditions, public transportation throughout Nigeria can be dangerous. Taxis pose risks because of the possibility of fraudulent or criminal operators, old and unsafe vehicles and poorly maintained roads. Road travel in Lagos is banned between 7 and 10 a.m. on the last Saturday of every month for municipal road cleanup; police vigilantly enforce the ban.

Most Nigerian airlines have aging fleets, and maintenance and operational procedures may be inadequate to ensure passenger safety.