The Nigeria Police Force has sparked intense reactions nationwide after issuing a controversial safety warning to citizens on how to behave when confronted by criminals.
Speaking during an interview on Politics Today on Tuesday, the Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, advised Nigerians not to struggle or fight back if they find themselves in the hands of criminals.
“Stay Calm First, We’ll Chase Them Later”
According to Hundeyin, resisting criminals in dangerous situations could cost victims their lives.
“In the unfortunate event that you find yourself among criminals, do not struggle, do not fight—just stay calm and save your life first. We can always go after these criminals to have them arrested,” he said.
The statement immediately triggered mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians questioning whether compliance truly guarantees safety.
Police React to One-Chance Fears in Abuja
Addressing concerns about the rising activities of the notorious “One-Chance” robbery syndicates, especially in Abuja, Hundeyin assured Nigerians that the police are actively tackling the threat.
He dismissed claims that security attention is focused on only certain regions of the country, insisting that policing efforts are nationwide.
“Even while operations are ongoing in some parts of the country, other areas are also being adequately policed,” he stated.
Major Arrests Made — Police Say
Hundeyin revealed that recent breakthroughs have been recorded against criminal gangs, including the arrest of suspects linked to the killing of a lawyer in Abuja.
“Just recently, a few days ago, we arrested the gang behind the murder of that lawyer, and the phone has been recovered,” he disclosed.
Public Reaction: Safety Tip or Dangerous Advice?
While the police insist the advice is meant to preserve lives, many Nigerians online argue that criminals often harm victims even when they cooperate, making the guidance unsettling.
Others, however, believe the message reflects a harsh reality — that survival sometimes depends on compliance, not resistance.
Bottom Line
The statement has reopened a national conversation about personal safety, policing effectiveness, and crime prevention, especially as kidnapping, robbery, and “one-chance” attacks remain a daily fear for many Nigerians.
Whether seen as practical advice or a troubling admission, one thing is clear: the debate is far from over.
Related: Court Grants ₦1bn Bail to Ex-Attorney General Abubakar Malami, Son in Abuja
