Police Rescue Adelabu’s Sister, Twin Sons After Gun Battle With Kidnappers

IBADAN — The Nigeria Police Force has rescued Mrs Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, following a rescue operation in Oyo State that led to the killing of two suspected kidnappers.

The victims, including the younger sister of former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, were rescued alive at about 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, according to police sources.

The family was abducted around 7:30 a.m. on June 3 while Mrs John-Paul was taking her children to school in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

Police sources said the rescue followed sustained intelligence gathering and tactical operations that mounted pressure on the kidnappers, forcing them into a confrontation with security operatives.

During the operation, two suspected members of the kidnapping gang were neutralised in a gun duel, while security personnel recovered two firearms from the suspects.

Police Neutralise Two Suspects During Rescue Operation

According to a source within the police force, the successful operation was carried out after investigators tracked the movement of the kidnappers and intensified efforts to secure the release of the victims.

The source added that security operatives are continuing search operations in nearby areas to apprehend other members of the gang who reportedly escaped during the exchange of gunfire.

Some of the fleeing suspects are believed to have sustained gunshot wounds.

Prior to the rescue, the family had appealed for calm and support as efforts intensified to secure the release of the victims.

In a statement issued after the abduction, Adelabu’s media aide, Femi Awogboro, described the incident as distressing and urged the public to avoid speculation.

“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 said.

Makinde Assured Family of Ongoing Rescue Efforts

Before the rescue, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde had visited Adelabu to express solidarity with the family and assure them of intensified efforts by security agencies.

In a post shared on his social media account on Friday, Makinde said he had met with Adelabu to discuss measures being implemented to strengthen security across the state.

“Yesterday, we visited my brother, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, to commiserate with him over the kidnapping of his younger sister and her children,” the governor said.

“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 abduction had heightened concerns over insecurity in Oyo State, coming weeks after more than 40 students and teachers were kidnapped in Oriire Local Government Area, an incident that triggered protests and renewed calls for stronger security measures across the state.

The police have yet to issue an official statement detailing the rescue operation, but investigations and manhunt efforts are ongoing.

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A Lagos-based journalist with a passion for disseminating factual information and a deep appreciation for good music, good food, movies, and beautiful cars. He hopes to travel the world someday, documenting its beauty and diverse cultures through his storytelling.