The Oyo State Police Command has successfully rescued the younger sister of former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and her twin sons, days after they were abducted in Ibadan. The operation, which took place on Saturday, resulted in the death of two suspected kidnappers during a gun battle.
Rescue Operation Details
Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, were rescued at about 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, three days after they were kidnapped while driving to school. The police operation was intelligence-led, involving sustained pressure on the kidnappers. Two firearms were recovered from the suspects, and a manhunt is ongoing for other gang members who escaped, some believed to be wounded.
Background of the Abduction
The abduction occurred on June 3, 2026, at approximately 7:30 a.m. in Ibadan. The incident sparked widespread concern due to Adelabu's prominence as a former minister. The family confirmed the kidnapping through Adelabu's media aide, Femi Awogboro, who urged calm and cautioned against spreading unverified information. No ransom demand was made, and the family relied on security agencies for the victims' safe return.
Ongoing Kidnapping Crisis
The rescue has drawn fresh attention to the plight of school pupils and teachers abducted weeks ago in Oyo State, who remain in captivity. Their prolonged ordeal has raised questions about the effectiveness of security responses to kidnapping cases. While Adelabu's relatives were freed within days, families of other victims continue to wait for breakthroughs. Recent abductions in the South-West have intensified calls for stronger security measures and improved intelligence to combat criminal gangs.
The Nigeria Police Force has been praised for the successful rescue, but the broader insecurity issues persist, with many victims still held in forests without confirmed release dates.
