In a tense and highly coordinated security operation, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have successfully rescued Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, the younger sister of former Minister of Power and APC governorship aspirant, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, alongside her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul.
The dramatic rescue brought an end to a terrifying three day kidnapping ordeal that had thrown Ibadan and the wider Oyo State community into fear and uncertainty.
The operation, which unfolded in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, ended with a combination of intelligence tracking, tactical pressure, and a violent confrontation with the suspected abductors.
How the Kidnapping Took Place
The incident began on the morning of Wednesday, June 3, 2026, when Mrs. John-Paul was carrying out her usual routine of taking her twin sons to school. The morning, which started like any other, quickly turned into a nightmare.
At about 7:30 a.m., while driving through the Elewura Challenge axis in the Ibadan South West Local Government Area, their vehicle was reportedly ambushed by armed men. According to security reports, the attackers had trailed the family from their residence before striking.
The kidnappers blocked the road and forced the vehicle to a halt. In a swift and violent move, they dragged Mrs. John-Paul and her two sons out of the car and whisked them away to an unknown location.
The boldness of the attack, carried out in broad daylight within a busy part of the city, sparked widespread concern and outrage, especially given the victim’s connection to a prominent political figure in the state and national landscape.
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Three Days of Fear and High-Level Intervention
Following the abduction, the Adelabu family was plunged into distress, while security agencies immediately launched a coordinated response to secure the safe return of the victims.
A statement from the family’s media aide described the situation as deeply painful but expressed confidence in the efforts of law enforcement agencies to resolve the case.
The incident also drew swift political attention. Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde personally visited the Adelabu family to express solidarity and reassurance during the difficult period. He assured them that security agencies were working tirelessly to ensure the victims were brought back safely.
Behind the scenes, police investigators and tactical units began working on intelligence gathered from surveillance and communication tracking, gradually closing in on the suspected kidnappers.
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The Final Operation and Gun Duel
The breakthrough came on the evening of Saturday, June 6, 2026, when police operatives located the suspected hideout of the kidnappers through coordinated intelligence operations.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer for the Oyo State Command, CSP Olayinka Ayanlade, tactical teams were able to track the suspects using electronic intelligence and field surveillance. Once the location was confirmed, security forces moved in to carry out a rescue operation.
As officers advanced, the kidnappers reportedly resisted arrest and opened fire, triggering a fierce gun battle that lasted several minutes.
During the exchange, police operatives overpowered the suspects, resulting in the death of two suspected kidnappers. Two firearms were recovered from the scene, further confirming the criminal nature of the group involved.
Most importantly, Mrs. John-Paul and her twin sons were rescued alive and were found to be in stable condition with no physical injuries reported.
Search Continues for Fleeing Suspects
Although the immediate rescue was successful, security operations are still ongoing. Authorities have confirmed that several members of the kidnapping gang escaped during the gun battle, some of whom are believed to have sustained gunshot wounds.
Police teams are currently conducting searches across nearby forests and surrounding communities in Oyo State in an effort to apprehend the remaining suspects.
Hospitals and medical facilities have also been placed on alert, with security agencies urging the public to report any individuals seeking treatment for suspicious injuries that may be linked to the incident.
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Public Reaction and Relief
News of the successful rescue has been met with widespread relief across Ibadan and beyond, particularly among political associates and residents who had followed the case closely over the past few days.
The operation has been described as a significant success for the Oyo State Police Command, highlighting the role of intelligence driven policing and coordinated tactical response in resolving kidnapping cases.
For the Adelabu family, what began as a terrifying ordeal has now ended in relief and gratitude, as they are reunited safely after days of uncertainty and fear.
The incident once again underscores the persistent security challenges in parts of the country, while also demonstrating the impact of swift and targeted law enforcement action when effectively executed.
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