Eight states have been identified as the most dangerous areas plagued with security threats in the country.

A research firm, SB Morgen (SBM) Intelligence, pointed out Port Harcourt, Maiduguri, Lagos, Jos, Calabar, Kano, Eleme Junction in Rivers State, and Onitsha as unsafe areas.

It was noted that these major cities and highways are susceptible to theft, attacks, and road hazards, providing crucial insights into the country’s security challenges.

According to the report, Port Harcourt was labelled as the most dangerous city with 85 incidents involving violent crimes such as armed robbery and kidnapping.

Maiduguri came in second with 52 incidents, surrounded by ongoing insurgent threats. Lagos recorded 32 incidents, with urban crime concentrated in high-density areas.

“The Makurdi-Jos route presents another troubling scenario, with a blend of youth gang violence and farmer-pastoral conflicts.

“These incidents often lead to roadblocks and attacks on motorists, highlighting systemic lapses in government security provisions,” the report stated.

Jos, Calabar, and Kano also recorded between 18 and 23 incidents, with communal clashes and urban theft dominating the security landscape.

Eleme Junction in Rivers State, a strategic transport hub, accounted for 16 incidents, while Onitsha’s bustling trade routes saw 15 cases of theft and related crimes.

“The Port Harcourt-Warri route has now surpassed the Abuja-Kaduna highway in danger levels,” the report added, noting the prevalence of kidnapping for ransom.

The report highlighted infrastructural deficiencies, revealing that 84.6% of respondents had experienced or heard of security incidents on their travel routes. Only 42% found the roads somewhat safe, with just 2.4% considering them very safe.

The survey pointed out challenges like potholes, poor drainage, and traffic congestion, exacerbating road hazards and called for improved security measures to safeguard travellers and enhance road infrastructure.