Armed Gunmen Abduct Lagos Woman, Demand ₦60m Ransom in Dollar Terms as Security Agencies Launch Rescue Operation

A coordinated night-time attack in Lagos has left the family of Mrs Olanike Ogundare in distress after armed kidnappers stormed her residence in the Oke Agaye area of Ijedodo and whisked her away at gunpoint.

The incident reportedly occurred around 1:00 a.m. at her home on Olufemi Ogundare Street, where attackers overpowered a private security guard before gaining access to the compound. Residents say the operation was swift, targeted, and executed with clear planning.

Security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS), have since joined forces with local vigilantes and community leaders to track down the abductors and secure her release. Prominent figures, including Gani Adams, are also reportedly involved in coordination efforts.

Investigators say the kidnappers have made contact with the family on two occasions, initially demanding ₦60 million as ransom. The demand was later shifted into United States dollars, a move security sources believe may be aimed at complicating financial tracking and enforcement.

Communication with the family was allegedly routed through an intermediary identified as Mr Dapo Adeola. Sources say ₦5 million has already been transferred through him, though it remains unclear whether the money reached the abductors or was converted as requested.

A security source familiar with the investigation described the case as an organised operation, noting that the use of a middleman and currency conversion signals an attempt to reduce traceability. Authorities are now monitoring phone activity and financial movements linked to the case.

Despite ongoing negotiations, officials believe Mrs Ogundare is still in captivity. Intelligence efforts have been stepped up, with security operatives working to intercept communications and identify the location of the kidnappers.

The case adds to growing concerns over targeted abductions in parts of Lagos, where attackers increasingly use coordinated tactics and ransom negotiations routed through intermediaries to frustrate tracking efforts.