Security agencies have launched an intensive search operation following the abduction of the younger sister of former Minister of Power and All Progressives Congress governorship aspirant in Oyo State, Adebayo Adelabu, along with her twin sons in Ibadan.
The victims, identified as Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, were reportedly kidnapped by armed men on Wednesday morning in the Challenge area of Ibadan South-West Local Government Area.
According to a statement issued by Adelabu’s media aide, Femi Awogboro, the incident occurred at approximately 7:30 a.m. while Mrs. John-Paul was taking her children to school. The gunmen allegedly intercepted the family and forcefully whisked them away to an unknown location.
Mrs. John-Paul, 43, is described as a former employee of the Central Bank of Nigeria and First Bank Pension Custodian. Following her retirement, she relocated to Ibadan with her children while preparing to join her husband, who currently resides in the United States.
The family confirmed that security and law enforcement agencies were immediately alerted after the incident. Authorities have since commenced investigations and are actively working to secure the safe release of the victims and bring those responsible to justice.
Adebayo Adelabu and members of his family have expressed deep concern over the development but remain hopeful that security operatives will succeed in rescuing Mrs. John-Paul and her children unharmed.
The family has appealed to the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information that could undermine ongoing rescue efforts. They also urged anyone with useful information that may assist investigators to report it through the appropriate security channels.
The latest incident has once again raised concerns over insecurity and kidnapping cases in Oyo State. In recent months, several abduction cases have been reported across the state, including the kidnapping of dozens of teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area and the abduction of APC chieftain Wale Oriade in Ibadan late last year.
As investigations continue, residents and political stakeholders are calling for strengthened security measures to curb the growing threat of kidnapping and violent crimes across the state.
For more security and political updates, visit DOTT TV at https://dotttv.tv/.