Police operatives have rescued the younger sister of former Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, along with her 12 year old twin sons, days after they were abducted in Oyo State.
Mrs Olaide Busayo Adegoke John Paul and her sons, Peter and Paul, were freed during a security operation carried out on Saturday evening. Police sources said the rescue mission led to a fierce gun battle between officers and suspected kidnappers.
According to security officials, two members of the kidnapping gang were killed during the exchange of fire, while two firearms were recovered from the suspects. The victims were rescued alive and unharmed.
Mrs John Paul and her children were kidnapped on June 3 while travelling to drop the boys at school in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. Their abduction sparked concern among residents and renewed fears over rising insecurity in parts of the state.
Police sources said intelligence gathering and sustained pressure on the kidnappers helped security operatives track the gang and force a confrontation that ultimately resulted in the successful rescue of the victims.
Authorities disclosed that a manhunt is still underway for other members of the criminal syndicate. Some of the fleeing suspects are believed to have escaped with gunshot wounds following the operation.
In a statement issued after the abduction, Adelabu’s media aide, Femi Awogboro, appealed for calm and urged the public to support ongoing rescue efforts. The family expressed hope for the safe return of the victims while asking Nigerians to avoid speculation.
Mrs John Paul is the youngest of five children of Mrs Olufunmilayo Aduke Adegoke Adelabu. She reportedly left her role at First Bank Pension Custodian in 2025 and relocated to Ibadan with her children.
The rescue comes amid growing concerns over kidnapping and violent crime in Oyo State. It also follows the recent abduction of more than 40 students and teachers in Orire Local Government Area, an incident that triggered public outrage and calls for stronger security measures across the state.
