Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have rescued Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, younger sister of former Minister of Power Chief Adebayo Adelabu, and her 12-year-old twin sons Peter and Paul after a late-night operation in Ibadan.
The victims were abducted around 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 3, 2026, at Elewura-Challenge in Ibadan South West Local Government Area while Mrs. John-Paul was taking the twins to school. Armed men reportedly trailed their vehicle from home before intercepting them.
Police said the rescue was carried out around 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026, following sustained intelligence tracking. According to police sources, the kidnappers held the family at Oleyo and left some men behind to monitor them while others lodged in a hotel. Operatives tracked the vehicle used in the abduction to the hideout, leading to a gun duel.
Two suspected kidnappers were neutralized during the confrontation and two others were arrested. Two firearms were recovered from the gang. Security operatives are still combing nearby areas for fleeing members of the syndicate, some of whom are believed to have escaped with gunshot wounds.
Confirming the development, Oyo State Commissioner of Police, CP Abimbola Olugbenga, stated: “The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State has confirmed that the abducted victims have been rescued and are safe, healthy and unharmed.
We express our sincere appreciation to the police and other security agencies, the media, political associates and all stakeholders for their concern, support and efforts during this period. Further details will be provided as they become available”.
Oyo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, also confirmed the rescue to Sunday PUNCH: “The victims had been rescued and promised that the police would provide further details on the operation in due course”.
The victims have since been reunited with family and are said to be in stable condition. Police said a full tactical breakdown of the operation will be released after ongoing investigations are concluded.
