The Oyo State Police Command has launched a manhunt and investigation following the abduction of Mrs. Busayo John-Paul, the younger sister of former Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, along with her twin sons, Peter and Paul.
Details of the Abduction
Mrs. John-Paul, 43, and her 12-year-old sons were seized by armed men at approximately 7:30 am on Wednesday, June 3, while she was driving them to school on Ring Road in Ibadan. The gunmen reportedly blocked their vehicle and forced them out before fleeing with the victims.
Police Response
Confirming the incident, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, stated that the command has deployed tactical teams to secure the victims' release and apprehend the perpetrators. He said, "Following the report of the incident, the Commissioner of Police immediately directed the Divisional Police Officer, Challenge Division, alongside other tactical teams, to proceed to the scene where the victim's vehicle was recovered and commence intensive investigations."
Ayanlade added, "The command wishes to assure members of the public that all necessary resources have been deployed to ensure the safe rescue of the victims and the apprehension of those responsible for this criminal act." The police also appealed to residents to provide any useful information that could assist ongoing investigations.
Family Confirmation
Earlier on Wednesday, Adelabu's media aide, Femi Awogboro, confirmed the abduction in a statement. "The family of Adebayo Adelabu, former Minister of Power and leading governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress in Oyo State, wishes to formally confirm the unfortunate kidnapping of his younger sister, Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, alongside her twin sons, Peter and Paul," the statement read.
Awogboro further noted, "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."
