kidnapped adelabu’s sister, twin sons rescued alive as police kill two suspects
The Nigeria Police Force has rescued Mrs Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, during a late-night operation in Oyo State, ending days of anxiety over their abduction.
Police sources said the victims were rescued alive at about 7.30pm on Saturday following a confrontation between operatives and members of the kidnapping gang. Two suspected kidnappers were killed in a gun battle, while security personnel recovered two firearms from the suspects.
According to sources within the Force, sustained intelligence gathering, tracking operations and tactical pressure mounted on the abductors forced them into a firefight with police operatives, leading to the successful rescue of the victims.
Security agencies are continuing search operations in surrounding areas to apprehend other members of the gang, some of whom reportedly escaped with gunshot wounds.
Mrs John-Paul, who is the younger sister of former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and her twin sons were abducted on 3 June while she was taking the children to school in Ibadan.
Confirming the incident earlier, Adelabu’s media aide, Femi Awogboro, said the victims were seized by gunmen at about 7.30am, plunging the family into distress.
“We are deeply distressed by this unfortunate incident but remain hopeful that the victims will be rescued safely. We appeal to the public to remain calm, avoid speculation, and support ongoing efforts with prayers,” the family had said in a statement.
The abduction drew widespread concern and prompted intervention from the Oyo State government. On Friday, Governor Seyi Makinde visited Adelabu and assured him that security agencies were intensifying efforts to secure the safe return of the victims.
In a post on his X account, the governor said: “Yesterday, we visited my brother, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, to commiserate with him over the kidnapping of his younger sister and her children.
“I assured him that the security agencies are working towards their safe return, and we discussed some of the measures our administration is putting in place to further strengthen our security architecture in Oyo State.”
The rescue comes amid growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Oyo State. The incident occurred only weeks after the abduction of more than 40 pupils and teachers in Orire Local Government Area, a development that triggered public outrage and renewed calls for stronger security measures across the state