In a disturbing incident early Saturday, July 12, 2025, 23‑year‑old Grace Godwin—a fuel attendant at a Mobil station in Mabushi—was discovered dead along Iya Abubakar Street, Jabi, Abuja. Law enforcement officials suspect she fell victim to a brutal ‘one‑chance’ gang—criminals posing as commercial drivers to abduct and rob unsuspecting passengers.
Timeline of Tragedy
At approximately 8:53 p.m. on Friday, Grace boarded a vehicle in Mabushi. Authorities believe it was operated by a notorious “one‑chance” gang. These criminals often present themselves as legitimate drivers or passengers, only revealing their true intent once the victim is inside—seizing valuables or abducting them at knifepoint or gunpoint.
Later that night, Grace’s family received a chilling ransom demand at 11:56 p.m., confirming she had been taken. Early the next morning, her body was spotted unconscious on the roadside. Law enforcement officers transported her to the National Hospital, where she was pronounced dead a short time later. Her remains now lie at the hospital mortuary, awaiting confirmatory autopsy results. Her family has since identified her, marking the beginning of formal notification and mourning.
What Is ‘One‑Chance’ Robbery?
‘One‑chance’ robberies plague Nigeria’s urban centers, particularly Abuja. Criminals masquerade as commercial drivers or fellow travelers, lulling victims into a false sense of security before striking. Reports indicate over 100 such cases in Abuja since 2015, with numerous victims left injured—or worse. The attacks often occur in dimly lit or isolated locations, with assailants using knives, firearms, or POS terminals to extract cash on the spot .
Devastating Echoes: The Case of Freda Arnong
Only days earlier, 26‑year‑old Freda Arnong, a Ghanaian embassy employee, also fell victim to this tactic. On July 1, she boarded a taxi near the CBN Institute in Maitama after attending a fellowship event. Assailants in the vehicle blindfolded and assaulted her, stealing her valuables. She suffered severe injuries and was abandoned near Moshood Abiola Stadium. A Good Samaritan rescued her, and she passed away in hospital on July 7 .
Crime Wave in Abuja: A Growing Concern
Abuja now contends with daily threats from kidnapping and one‑chance robberies, creating widespread fear. The city’s once-trusted road‑hailing system has become fraught with danger. A mid‑2025 study warns that FCT residents endure repeated trauma—with early morning and late-night hours most dangerous.
In 2024, FCT police recorded over 263 one‑chance robbery cases, rescued 19 victims, and arrested 71 suspects. Additional cases of armed robbery and kidnapping pushed total incidences above 1,400. These figures likely underrepresent the issue, as many victims decline to report out of fear .
Law Enforcement Steps Up
Authorities have responded with a robust strategy:
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Intelligence‑led operations targeting gang leaders and hot spots
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Stop‑and‑search checkpoints at areas identified as crime zones
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Cracking down on tinted windows and concealed license plates, which mask criminal activity
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AFP/Military joint patrols throughout the FCT to enhance road safety
These measures recently netted 82 suspects across kidnapping, robbery, and theft cases including one‑chance operations. Police recovered stolen vehicles, weapons, POS systems, and other evidence. Public feedback suggests these operations are beginning to yield positive results, yet residents still fear moving alone after dark.
Life in Limbo: Public Fear and Economic Impact
Criminality has altered daily life. A June 2025 survey found commuters now double-check ride-hailing details, avoid certain routes, and pay more for secure services. Traders, transport unions, and professionals report spending extra on private security or opting for pricey ride-hailing services—all in the name of safety .
One trader lost over ₦700,000 and suffered bodily injury after boarding a trusted ride at dawn. Others endured digital theft when criminals forced victims to perform bank transfers. The economic cost could stall Abuja’s growth if left unchecked.
Ongoing Investigation into Grace’s Death
Following Grace Godwin’s death, the Jabi Police Division has launched a comprehensive investigation. Teams are tracing the commercial vehicle she boarded Friday night and are interrogating potential victims or eyewitnesses. A manhunt is underway for the kidnappers and robbers, with authorities promising swift justice. They urge anyone with relevant information to come forward.
A Wider National Issue with Local Impact
Abuja’s recent spate of one‑chance robberies reflects broader national insecurity. Similar incidents occur in Lagos and other urban centers. The pattern involves car hijacking, blindfolding, rape, and abduction—underscoring brutal criminal intent.
Civil society groups such as HURIWA and residents’ associations have urged stronger enforcement: profiling commercial drivers across the FCT and instituting a driver‑vehicle registry. Meanwhile, the FCT Administration plans a digital registry for commercial drivers to support prosecutions.
The Road Ahead: Policy and Community Partners
Experts believe a multi-pronged strategy is needed:
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Regulatory reforms for ride-hailing: mandatory driver ID, background checks, visible plates, and GPS tracking.
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Technological investments: install functional CCTV around transport hubs and along major roads.
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Strengthening police-community ties: promote anonymous tip lines and engage local vigilantes in safety monitoring.
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Public education campaigns on safe commuting practices and reporting protocols.
Mobile apps could be developed to verify driver identity, share ride details with contacts, and alert authorities in emergencies. Authorities have already started enforcing number plate and tint rules and are deploying improved street lighting.
Conclusion
The tragic deaths of Grace Godwin and Freda Arnong mark a distressing chapter in Abuja’s ongoing battle with one‑chance criminal gangs. These incidents underscore the urgent need for effective policing, stronger regulations in ride-hailing, and community resilience measures.
The government and security agencies appear to be raising their commitment—from checkpoint blitzes to driver profiling—but sustainable solutions require coordination with transport unions, tech firms, and public advocacy groups. Only then can Abuja shift from fear back to freedom for its residents and restore faith in the daily commute.
Authorities pledge full-force action to identify and prosecute Grace’s assailants. As the investigation unfolds, the broader question looms: will this tragedy catalyze long-lasting changes—and safer streets—for all in the Federal Capital Territory?
