Fear, Outrage as Lagos Taxi Driver Nabbed for Alleged Serial Rape, Assault

— Residents, Rights Groups Demand Safer Transport System

Tension rippled through parts of Lagos on Monday following the arrest of a commercial taxi driver, Adedayo Ben Adegbola, accused of serially raping, assaulting, and robbing female passengers in different parts of the city.

Adegbola was arrested by operatives of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, after several women raised alarm on social media, linking him to multiple sexual assaults. His vehicle, a red Toyota Corolla with registration number JJJ 226 HT, has since been impounded as evidence.

According to Police sources, the suspect allegedly preyed on unsuspecting passengers who boarded his taxi, attacking them in isolated areas before robbing them of their valuables.

The Lagos State Police Command confirmed the arrest, adding that an investigation is underway to uncover the extent of his crimes and any possible accomplices.

The arrest, however, has sparked anger and fear across communities, with residents lamenting what they described as rising insecurity in the city’s transport system.

Many Lagosians have taken to social media to express shock, calling for stricter screening of commercial drivers and improved passenger safety measures.

Women’s rights advocates, meanwhile, criticized the delay in law enforcement’s response, noting that several warnings were ignored until the case went viral. “It’s frightening that a supposed taxi driver could turn predator,” said Aisha Oke, a women’s safety advocate in Ikeja. “We need technology-backed tracking, verified ride apps, and driver background checks — not just after an arrest but as a standard.”

Police Commissioner CP Olohuntare Jimoh assured that all victims would be protected and urged anyone with information to come forward. He emphasized that the command remains committed to ensuring justice and preventing similar incidents.

Civil groups and community leaders are also proposing initiatives to strengthen public transport safety. Some transport unions have hinted at introducing driver identification tags and security cameras in vehicles to rebuild public trust.

As investigations continue, residents are calling for action beyond arrests, demanding a system that ensures every Lagos commuter, especially women, can travel without fear.