Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling commercial capital, is a city full of energy, business opportunities, and round-the-clock hustle. But beneath the vibrant street life and neon-lit nightlife lies a darker reality—pockets of danger where crime thrives unchecked.
Here are 15 dangerous areas in Lagos where you should shine your eyes and proceed with extreme caution:
- Agege Under Bridge
A hotbed for criminal activity. Hoodlums operate in the early hours (around 4am) and late at night (from 9pm), targeting lone pedestrians. - Oyingbo Under Bridge
Despite being near a police station, this area is a haven for bag snatchers and phone thieves. Victims often get no justice. - Obalende Bridge
Pickpockets roam freely here both day and night. Beware of “One Chance” buses, where fake commercial drivers rob passengers mid-journey. - Oshodi Under Bridge
Infamous for armed robbery and extortion. Gangs operate in groups, making it unsafe for commuters, especially at night. - Ikeja Under Bridge
A major transportation hub, but also a den of criminals disguised as regular passengers. Stay alert and avoid displaying valuables. - Iyana Iba Market Area
Home to a syndicate of pickpockets who fear neither police nor daylight. Robbery is common both in the early morning and at night. - Okokomaiko
Nicknamed the “Headquarters of Pickpockets” in Lagos West. Thieves operate openly near the police station—often with zero consequences. - Orile Bus Stop
Another hotspot for “One Chance” robbers and early-morning muggers. Crowds offer little protection here. - Ijora 7-Up
A notorious zone where hoodlums dominate. Frequent cases of bag snatching and robbery in broad daylight. - Idumota
Considered the “Headquarters of Crime” in Lagos. Despite being a commercial hub, crimes of all kinds—from pickpocketing to armed robbery—are rampant. Even security forces struggle to control the area. - Mushin (a.k.a. Mushin Olosha)
An epicenter of criminal activity. Day or night, expect anything from phone snatching to violent street robberies. - Ojuelegba
A lively part of town that turns dangerous at night. High crime rates and chaotic scenes make it risky for lone individuals. - Ojodu-Berger
Criminals posing as commuters rob people at gunpoint. Bag and phone snatching is common on footbridges and bus stops. - Shomolu-Bariga Axis
Street urchins and area boys dominate here. Reports of daylight robbery are frequent, and victims often lose phones and wallets. - Fadeyi
A known trouble spot with recurring cases of thuggery, pickpocketing, and violent attacks both in the morning and at night. - Mile 2
Criminals often break into cars during traffic. Violent robbery and pickpocketing are regular occurrences.
