Hotels in Nigeria: When comfort turns deadly, by Martha Gwary
Hotels are meant to be safe havens for travellers, business executives and families seeking rest and recreation.
However, a disturbing pattern of violence, robbery and even murder in some Nigerian hotels has continued to raise serious questions about guest safety and the adequacy of security measures within the hospitality industry.
Man-made Tragedies
In recent years, several widely reported incidents have cast a shadow over the sector. In one tragic case in Akure, Ondo State, a hotel guest was reportedly murdered after being lured into a facility that lacked basic security checks.
Similarly, there have been cases in Abuja, Lagos and Port Harcourt where armed robbers gained access to hotel premises, attacked guests, carted away valuables and, in some instances, killed or severely injured occupants.
These incidents, though not daily occurrences, are frequent enough to generate public anxiety and erode confidence in hotel safety.
Beyond violent attacks, there have also been reports of hotel guests falling victim to organised fraud, ritual-related crimes and internal compromise involving hotel staff who allegedly conspired with criminals.
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Complacency of Hotel Workers
In some cases, assailants reportedly obtain room details through insiders, making it easier to target unsuspecting guests. Such occurrences have fuelled concerns that weak internal controls and poor staff screening are putting innocent lives at risk.
The Need for Heightened Security
Security experts argue that many hotels, especially low-and medium-scale establishments, prioritise profit over safety. Some operate without trained security personnel, functional surveillance cameras or proper guest verification systems.
Others lack perimeter fencing, access control or collaboration with local law enforcement agencies. This creates an enabling environment for criminal elements who view poorly secured hotels as easy targets.
A Massive Setback
The consequences are far-reaching. Apart from the loss of lives and property, insecurity in hotels damages Nigeria’s image as a tourism and investment destination. Business travellers and tourists are increasingly cautious, while families worry about the safety of loved ones staying in hotels away from home.
There is, therefore, an urgent need for maximum security measures across the hospitality sector. Hotel operators must invest in trained security personnel, functional CCTV systems, electronic access controls and strict guest identification procedures.
Background checks for staff should be mandatory, while regular security audits must be conducted to identify and address vulnerabilities.
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The Role of Government
Government agencies also have a role to play. Regulatory bodies should enforce minimum security standards for hotel licensing and operation, while security agencies must strengthen patrols and rapid response around hotel zones.
Collaboration between hotel management and law enforcement can significantly reduce response time during emergencies.
Ultimately, the protection of innocent citizens must remain paramount. Hotels that fail to guarantee basic safety should not be allowed to operate unchecked.
As Nigerians continue to travel for business, leisure and family obligations, ensuring that hotels are secure is not just a business responsibility, but a moral and national imperative.
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