Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have rescued a former power minister Adebayo Adelabu’s sister and her twin sons abducted on Wednesday in the Challenge Area of Ibadan, Oyo State.

The Nigeria Police Force in a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Placid, on Saturday disclosed the successful rescue of Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul.   

He stated that the hostages were rescued during a coordinated operation by the Force Intelligence Department Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) in Ibadan at approximately 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026.

 He said, “Mrs. Adegoke and her children were abducted while she was driving them to school at about 7:30 a.m. on June 3, 2026. The rescue was achieved through sustained intelligence gathering, surveillance, and tactical operations. These efforts enabled investigators to track the kidnappers’ movements, resulting in a confrontation with FID-IRT operatives.   

“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.”

He added that the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, commended the courage, professionalism, and effectiveness of the FID-IRT operatives and officers involved.

Mr Placid stated, “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.”

He further said that the Nigeria Police Force appreciated the public’s support, cooperation, and patience during the operation. 

He explained that the Force remain committed to combating violent crime, protecting lives and property, and ensuring the safety of all citizens.  

Recall that gunmen kidnapped the ex-minister’s younger sister and her sons while she was taking them to school on June 3. 

The development came as the over 39 pupils and seven teachers abducted on May 15 by bandits in three schools in the Oriire Local Government Area of the state are still in captivity.

Protests have rocked states with civil rights groups and the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) among others demanding timely rescue of the hostages.