The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the rescue of Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, the younger sister of former minister of power, Adebayo Adelabu, and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, after three days in captivity.
Mrs. John-Paul and her children regained their freedom on Saturday following their abduction on Wednesday in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
The victims were reportedly ambushed by armed men at about 7:30 a.m. while she was driving her sons to school.
Olayinka Olushola, spokesperson of the Oyo State Police Command, had earlier confirmed that the victims were rescued unharmed.
In a statement on Saturday by DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the force public relations officer, the police disclosed that the rescue operation was carried out by operatives of the Force Intelligence Department Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) at about 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026.
According to the statement, the operation followed sustained intelligence gathering, surveillance, and tactical coordination, which enabled officers to track the kidnappers’ movements and engage them.
“During the confrontation, two suspected kidnappers were fatally wounded and two rifles were recovered. The victims were rescued unharmed and are now in safe custody, receiving medical care and support.
“The Inspector-General of Police commends the courage, professionalism, and effectiveness of the FID-IRT operatives and all officers involved. Their resilience and commitment were instrumental in the safe rescue of the hostages.
“Security operatives have intensified efforts in the area to apprehend fleeing members of the kidnapping syndicate.
“Preliminary intelligence indicates that some suspects escaped with gunshot injuries. Operations are ongoing to track, arrest, and bring all involved to justice,” Placid said.
Meanwhile, the incident comes amid ongoing concerns over insecurity in Oyo State, particularly the continued detention of more than 40 pupils and teachers abducted in Ogbomosho, Oriire Local Government Area, on May 15.
The victims, including children as young as two years old, are said to have remained in captivity for over three weeks.
