Kidnappers Attack Benin–Lagos Expressway, Abduct Passengers in Ondo State
Terror on the Highway: Kidnappers Strike Benin–Lagos Expressway in Broad Daylight
Fear and anger are spreading across southern Nigeria after suspected kidnappers reportedly attacked travellers along the Benin-Lagos Expressway, abducting several passengers in broad daylight. The incident reportedly occurred around lluabo, Akure, Ondo State, a busy route used daily by commuters travelling between major cities.
Eyewitness accounts claim that the criminals operated for hours without any intervention from security forces, leaving passengers and motorists helpless.
According to reports from travellers and local sources, the armed attackers blocked the road and began stopping vehicles along the highway. Passengers were reportedly forcefully removed from vehicles and taken into nearby forests, while other motorists fled the scene in panic. What has angered many Nigerians is the claim that the criminals operated for a long period without any visible response from security agencies. The incident has again raised serious concerns about the safety of travellers on Nigeria’s highways.
Kidnapping along major highways has become one of the most troubling security challenges in the country. Roads that once served as vital economic corridors are now becoming danger zones for commuters, traders, and transport operators. Many travellers now, avoid night journeys, travel in convoys, or rely on armed escorts where possible
Despite these precautions, attacks continue to occur even in broad daylight, increasing public fear.
Kidnappers struck again along the Benin-Lagos expressway, in Iluabo, Akure, Ondo state, in broad daylight, and kidnapped some passengers.
— Obiasogu David (@afrisagacity) March 11, 2026
They operated for hours yet no security team came to the rescue of the defenceless citizens!
I think it's time for everyone to own a gvn!✍️ pic.twitter.com/VKltDreNgb
One of the most troubling aspects of this incident is the reported absence of security response while the attack was ongoing. Citizens are asking difficult but necessary questions, where were the security patrol teams assigned to protect highways?, why did it take so long for authorities to respond?, how can criminals operate freely for hours without interruption?
The primary duty of any government is the protection of lives and property. When citizens cannot travel safely within their own country, it signals a serious failure in governance and security planning.
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Highway kidnappings are not just isolated criminal acts; they have far-reaching consequences. They affect; economic activity, as transporters avoid certain routes, business operations, especially in agriculture and trade, and public confidence in government institutions.
For ordinary Nigerians, the fear of travelling has become part of daily life. Families now worry every time a loved one sets out on a journey.
EverydayStoryNetwork Perspective
Nigeria cannot continue to treat insecurity as a routine headline. Citizens deserve more than promises and press statements, they deserve real protection and visible security presence. Government authorities must urgently; strengthen highway patrol operations, deploy rapid response security units and improve intelligence gathering in vulnerable areas.
If decisive action is not taken, criminal networks will continue to grow bolder.
A country where citizens cannot safely travel from one city to another is a country facing a serious governance crisis.
Let’s Hear From You
The latest attack raises urgent questions about safety in Nigeria:
Why are kidnappers becoming more confident on major highways?
Is the government doing enough to protect travellers?
What solutions can help restore security on Nigerian roads?
Share your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation.


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