No rosy picture in Nigeria
Posted: Mon Apr 03, 2006 8:21 pmThe 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.
In recent months, Lagos has witnessed a spike in crime. Some expatriates have been robbed in the outlying Lagos suburb of Lekki. In a working class section of mainland Lagos, an October 2005 clash between police and residents left several dead. Even Victoria and Ikoyi islands, which are generally safer than other parts of Lagos, have seen an increase in smash-and-grab car robberies.
Kidnapping for ransom of persons associated with the petroleum sector remains common in the Niger Delta area. Religious tension between some Muslim and Christian communities results in occasional acts of communal violence that could erupt without warning. 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 publicly in overthrowing the government of Nigeria.
Robberies by armed gangs have been 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 should be avoided. Taxis pose risks because of the possibility of fraudulent or criminal operators, old and unsafe vehicles and poorly maintained roads.
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In recent months, Lagos has witnessed a spike in crime. Some expatriates have been robbed in the outlying Lagos suburb of Lekki. In a working class section of mainland Lagos, an October 2005 clash between police and residents left several dead. Even Victoria and Ikoyi islands, which are generally safer than other parts of Lagos, have seen an increase in smash-and-grab car robberies.
Kidnapping for ransom of persons associated with the petroleum sector remains common in the Niger Delta area. Religious tension between some Muslim and Christian communities results in occasional acts of communal violence that could erupt without warning. 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 publicly in overthrowing the government of Nigeria.
Robberies by armed gangs have been 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 should be avoided. Taxis pose risks because of the possibility of fraudulent or criminal operators, old and unsafe vehicles and poorly maintained roads.
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