Victims regain freedom days after abduction in Ibadan as security operatives intensify hunt for fleeing gang members.
The Nigeria Police Force has allegedly rescued Mrs Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, during a rescue operation carried out on Saturday evening in Oyo State.
According to a news update on Channels Television’s website, a source within the Nigeria Police Force disclosed that the victims were rescued alive at about 7:30 p.m. following a sustained intelligence-led operation carried out by security operatives.
The source further alleged that two suspected kidnappers were neutralised during a gun battle with police operatives, while two firearms were recovered from the suspects.
Mrs John-Paul, who is the younger sister of former Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, was allegedly abducted alongside her twin sons at about 7:30 a.m. on June 3, 2026, while on their way to school in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
Police sources told Channels Television that intelligence gathering and sustained tactical pressure allegedly forced the kidnappers into a confrontation with security operatives, leading to the successful rescue of the victims.
The sources added that security personnel are still combing surrounding areas in search of other suspected members of the kidnapping syndicate, some of whom are believed to have escaped with gunshot wounds.
In a statement issued after the abduction, Adelabu’s media aide, Femi Awogboro, confirmed that Mrs John-Paul and her children were kidnapped while she was taking the boys to school.
“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 statement read in part.
Mrs John-Paul is the youngest of five children of Mrs Olufunmilayo Aduke Adegoke Adelabu, who reportedly retired from First Bank Pension Custodian in 2025 before relocating to Ibadan with her children.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigeria Police Force had yet to issue an official statement detailing the circumstances surrounding the rescue operation. However, security sources maintained that efforts were ongoing to apprehend other members of the alleged kidnapping gang.