A few years ago, the tragic case of Timothy Adegoke, an MBA student at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, who was allegedly murdered in a hotel where he lodged, sent shockwaves across Nigeria. Though justice may have been served, his life was lost forever. More recently, another unsettling case surfaced—Ayodeji, a visitor from Lagos to Ibadan, reportedly went missing with all his belongings from the hotel where he was staying. His whereabouts remain a mystery to this day.
These incidents highlight a disturbing trend: hotels, meant to be safe havens for travelers, are sometimes the very places where people meet danger. While authorities must step up regulations and security in the hospitality industry, individuals must also take personal safety seriously when lodging in any hotel. To avoid becoming a victim, here are some crucial safety measures to consider before and during your hotel stay.
1. Thoroughly Assess the Hotel Before Lodging
Before checking in, inspect the hotel premises, its security features, and the quality of the rooms. A reputable hotel should have functioning CCTV cameras, security personnel, and properly maintained facilities. If anything seems suspicious or substandard, consider looking for another option.
2. Notify Trusted People of Your Whereabouts
Right at the reception, make a phone call to at least two trusted individuals—your family members, spouse, or close friends. Clearly mention the name of the hotel, its location, and your room number. If possible, request someone to visit you the following morning, even if it’s just to bring you an item. This way, someone is aware of your presence there.
3. Avoid Cash Payments and Personal Transfers
Always make payments directly to the hotel’s official account via bank transfer or POS, rather than handing cash to an individual. If you must pay in cash, ensure you get an official receipt, snap it, and send a copy to a family member or a trusted person. This creates a financial trail that could be useful in case of any dispute or emergency.
4. Inspect Your Room for Hidden Dangers
Once inside your room, do a thorough check:
- Look around for any hidden recording devices in sockets, smoke detectors, mirrors, or behind paintings.
- Check under the bed, inside closets, and behind curtains to ensure no suspicious objects or hidden individuals are present.
- Inspect the locks on the doors and windows to be sure they are secure.
- If you find any suspicious item—whether it appears fetish or dangerous—raise an alarm immediately.
5. Stay Cautious About Food and Drinks
Be mindful of what you eat and drink in hotels. If possible, stick to bottled or sealed drinks and food from trusted sources. If a drink or meal tastes or smells unusual, do not consume it. Cases of hotel guests being drugged and robbed are not uncommon.
6. Keep an Eye on the Hotel Staff’s Attitude
Observe how hotel employees interact with guests. If they appear overly secretive, rude, or reluctant to answer basic security questions, consider leaving. Hotels with poor management and lax security measures often put guests at greater risk.
7. Have an Emergency Plan
Always have an escape plan in case of an emergency. Locate exit routes, identify alternative ways out of the hotel, and ensure your phone is always charged. It’s also wise to keep a personal security alarm or pepper spray handy, especially if you are staying alone.
Conclusion
Hotels should be places of comfort, not danger. While the government and hospitality industry must do more to enhance guest safety, individuals must take responsibility for their own security. By following these precautions, travelers can reduce the risks associated with lodging in unfamiliar places. Safety is not just a right—it is a duty that begins with vigilance.
