The family of former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu has expressed gratitude to security agencies and members of the public following the rescue of Mrs. Olaide Adegoke John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons from their abductors.
The victims were rescued on Saturday night by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force after days of intensive search and coordinated security operations.
Speaking after the development at her residence in the Challenge area of Ibadan, the former minister’s mother, Mrs. Olufunmilayo Adelabu, expressed deep relief and thanksgiving over the safe return of her daughter and grandchildren.
She said the experience was devastating when news of the abduction first broke, noting that the family initially faced uncertainty over the fate of the victims. She, however, said she remained grateful that they were rescued alive and reunited with the family.
Mrs. Adelabu also extended prayers to other victims of recent kidnappings in the Oriire area of Oyo State, expressing hope for their safe return and lasting peace across the country.
According to her, she had offered prayers a day before the abduction for victims of kidnapping in Oriire, not knowing that her own daughter and grandchildren would soon become victims of a similar incident.
The victims were reportedly abducted at about 7:30 a.m. on June 3, 2026, while Mrs. John-Paul was taking her children to school, an incident that left the family and community in distress.
The abduction occurred weeks after a series of kidnappings in Oriire Local Government Area, which had previously triggered public concern and protests.
Following the incident involving the former minister’s relatives, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde had visited the family and assured them that security agencies had intensified efforts to secure the victims’ release.
A security source disclosed that during the rescue operation, two suspected kidnappers were neutralised in a gun duel with police operatives, while two firearms were recovered from the gang.
Former Power Minister’s Family Commends Security Agencies Over Rescue of Wife and Twin Sons in Oyo
