A New Kidnap Format in Uyo: How I Escaped an Abduction Attempt
Kidnapping in Nigeria has taken many frightening forms, but a disturbing new tactic is spreading in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. This method relies not on force alone, but on public deception and victim-blaming, making it extremely dangerous for unsuspecting women.
This is my personal account of how I narrowly escaped, and why every woman in Uyo—and across Nigeria—must remain vigilant.
The Abduction Attempt on Aka Road
On the morning of September 12, 2025, I left my home for a quick errand, leaving my phone to charge since I expected to be back shortly.
After completing my first task, I walked towards a pharmacy along Aka Road to buy a sanitary pad. That was when I encountered a man in a Toyota Camry with tinted windows.
At first, he politely asked for directions. Seconds later, he asked for my phone number. I dismissed him and walked away. Suddenly, he grabbed my arm and began shouting lies—that I was his fiancée who had dumped him after he “sponsored” my education.
How the Kidnap Tactic Works
Here’s the frightening part: the man created a false domestic story that bystanders quickly believed.
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An elderly woman stepped in, siding with him, claiming I was “one of those girls” who abandon men after being “trained.”
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Keke operators gathered, repeating his narrative in Ibibio.
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My cries of “I don’t know this man!” were dismissed as a mere husband-and-wife quarrel.
This method weaponizes societal bias against women, turning potential rescuers into enablers of abduction.
The man even threatened to beat and strip me naked as the crowd looked on.
Intervention and Escape
By divine intervention, two strangers came to my rescue.
First, an Igbo man stopped and demanded proof:
Igbo Man: “If she’s your fiancée, what’s her name?”
Kidnapper: “Imaobong Peter.”
I immediately showed my ID cards, proving my real name. Still, the kidnapper refused to let go.
Then, another man arrived—the younger brother of my yam seller at Akpan Andem Market. Recognizing me, he loudly exposed the kidnapper as a scammer.
Realizing he had been identified, the kidnapper fled in his car. The elderly woman who had supported him also vanished.
Why This Kidnap Format Is Dangerous
This incident isn’t isolated. Locals confirm that similar tactics have been used recently along Aka Road and other parts of Uyo.
The method is dangerous because:
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It relies on lies, not weapons. This confuses crowds and discourages intervention.
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It exploits cultural sexism. Women’s voices are easily dismissed as emotional or deceptive.
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It weaponizes community complicity. Strangers unknowingly assist abductors by validating their lies.
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It discredits victims. If abducted, the story can be twisted against the woman.
Safety Lessons for Women
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Always carry your phone. Even on short errands, it can save you.
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Keep valid ID with you. Identity cards can disprove false claims.
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Trust no roadside interactions. Avoid prolonged conversations with strangers.
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Make noise. Draw as much attention as possible and insist on your truth.
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Share experiences. Awareness helps others recognize the danger early.
Final Thoughts
Kidnapping in Nigeria is evolving. The new “fake fiancé” abduction format in Uyo shows how criminals exploit cultural biases to silence victims.
I am deeply grateful for those who intervened and recognized me. Without them, my story might have ended differently.
Ladies, be vigilant. Gentlemen, be allies. And communities—please believe women when they cry for help.
Awareness and swift action can save lives.
