Police Rescue Ex-Minister Adelabu’s Sister, Twin Sons from Kidnappers in Ibadan

Police Rescue Ex-Minister Adelabu’s Sister, Twin Sons from Kidnappers in Ibadan

The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the successful rescue of Mrs Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, younger sister of former Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu, and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, following a coordinated intelligence-led operation in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The victims, who were abducted on June 3 while Mrs John-Paul was driving her children to school, were rescued unharmed at about 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, during an operation carried out by operatives of the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT).

Confirming the development in a statement issued on Saturday, Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, said the rescue followed days of sustained intelligence gathering, surveillance and tactical operations aimed at locating the kidnappers and securing the victims’ release.

According to the police, investigators successfully tracked the movement of the abductors, leading to a confrontation between members of the kidnapping gang and FID-IRT operatives. During the exchange, two suspected kidnappers were fatally wounded, while two rifles were recovered from the criminals.

“The rescue was achieved through sustained intelligence gathering, surveillance, and tactical operations. These efforts enabled investigators to track the kidnappers’ movements, resulting in a confrontation with FID-IRT operatives,” the statement said.

The police added that Mrs John-Paul and her children were rescued alive and have since been placed in safe custody, where they are receiving medical attention and necessary support.

The Inspector-General of Police commended the professionalism, courage and resilience displayed by the FID-IRT operatives and other officers involved in the operation, noting that their efforts were instrumental in ensuring the safe rescue of the hostages.

Meanwhile, security agencies have intensified efforts to apprehend other members of the kidnapping syndicate who escaped during the operation. Preliminary intelligence reports indicate that some fleeing suspects may have sustained gunshot wounds during the confrontation. Ongoing operations are focused on tracking and arresting all individuals connected to the abduction.

In a separate statement, Adelabu’s media aide, Comrade Femi Awogboro, confirmed that the victims had been safely rescued.

“The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State has confirmed that the abducted victims have been rescued and are safe, healthy, and unharmed,” Awogboro stated.

He expressed appreciation to the Nigeria Police Force, other security agencies, members of the media, political associates and stakeholders who supported the rescue efforts and showed concern throughout the ordeal.

“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,” the statement added.