Gunmen have abducted the younger sister of former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, along with her twin sons in Ibadan, Oyo State. The incident occurred on Wednesday morning, sparking a security operation and renewed concerns over rising kidnappings in the region.
Details of the Abduction
The victims have been identified as Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, 43, and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul. The abduction took place around 7:30 a.m. in the Elewura area of Challenge, Ibadan, while Mrs. John-Paul was taking her children to school. The assailants forcefully took the mother and her sons, leaving the family devastated.
Security Response
Femi Awogboro, Adelabu's media aide, confirmed the incident in a statement. He noted that relevant security agencies have been contacted and have commenced preliminary investigations. Efforts are underway to ensure the safe rescue of the victims and the apprehension of the perpetrators. The family has appealed to the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information that could jeopardize the operation.
Family's Appeal
The statement read: “Chief Adebayo Adelabu and the entire family are deeply distressed by this tragic development but remain hopeful and confident in the capacity of the security agencies to secure the safe release of Mrs. John-Paul and her children.” The family also urged anyone with useful information to pass it through appropriate security channels.
Background of the Victim
Mrs. John-Paul is the youngest of five children born to Mrs. Olufunmilayo Aduke Adegoke Adelabu. Before retiring voluntarily in 2025, she worked at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and First Bank Pension Custodian. She relocated to Ibadan with her children after retirement and was preparing to join her husband, who had earlier moved to the United States.
Rising Insecurity in Oyo State
This abduction comes less than three weeks after over 40 students and teachers were kidnapped in Oriire Local Government Area. The state has also witnessed other high-profile kidnappings, including the abduction of APC chieftain Wale Oriade in December 2025. The Oyo State Police Command had not issued an official statement as of the time of filing this report, but the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said he could not independently verify the incident immediately.
The family continues to cooperate fully with security authorities and will provide further updates as events unfold.
