Abuja was thrown into chaos and mourning on Wednesday as an angry mob lynched and set three suspected motor park touts ablaze following a tragic accident on the Mabushi Bridge that claimed the lives of a couple and their young son.
According to eyewitnesses, the touts—popularly known as “agberos”—allegedly attempted to extort money from a driver transporting his family. In the process, they reportedly dragged the steering wheel of the family’s car, causing the vehicle to swerve uncontrollably. The car then rammed into the side of the bridge, leading to the instant death of the husband, wife, and their little boy.
The horrific scene sparked outrage among onlookers, who quickly descended on the three touts believed to have caused the fatal crash. Before security agents could intervene, the furious mob overpowered the touts, beat them mercilessly, and set them ablaze right there at the roadside.
Residents described the incident as both tragic and avoidable, blaming the growing menace of touts who harass motorists daily in the Federal Capital Territory. Many lamented that extortion, intimidation, and physical assaults by these individuals have become rampant, with little to no check from relevant authorities.
“This is what happens when law enforcement agencies fail to act. These agberos have been terrorizing us here for years, collecting money by force and attacking drivers. Today, an innocent family paid with their lives. People couldn’t take it anymore,” said one eyewitness, who pleaded anonymity.
The gruesome mob justice drew mixed reactions. While some sympathized with the mob’s anger, others condemned the act of jungle justice, stressing that no matter the provocation, taking the law into one’s hands remains unlawful.
Police authorities in Abuja have yet to issue an official statement on the incident, but security operatives were later deployed to restore calm in the area and prevent further escalation.
The tragic accident has once again raised urgent questions about security, law enforcement, and the growing lawlessness on Nigerian roads, particularly in the nation’s capital. Citizens are now calling on the Federal Government and the FCT Administration to clamp down on touting activities and ensure justice for the slain family.
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