The family of former Minister of Power and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adebayo Adelabu, has confirmed the abduction of his younger sister, Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, and her 12-year-old twin sons by suspected gunmen in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by Adelabu’s media aide, Femi Awogboro, the victims were kidnapped at about 7:30 a.m. while Mrs. John-Paul was taking her children, Peter and Paul, to school.
The family disclosed that the incident occurred on June 3, 2026, and immediately drew the attention of relevant security and law enforcement agencies.
Mrs. John-Paul, 43, is the youngest of five children of Mrs. Olufunmilayo Aduke Adegoke Adelabu. She reportedly retired voluntarily from her career at the Central Bank of Nigeria and First Bank Pension Custodian in 2025 before relocating to Ibadan with her children.
She was said to be making arrangements to join her husband, Mr. John Paul, who had earlier relocated to the United States.
Confirming the incident, the family expressed deep concern over the development but stated that security agencies had already commenced efforts to rescue the victims and apprehend those responsible.
“We are pleased to confirm that security operatives have swung into action and preliminary investigations have commenced in earnest,” the statement said.
The family described the abduction as a heinous act and expressed confidence in the ability of security agencies to secure the safe release of Mrs. John-Paul and her children.
While appealing for calm, the family urged members of the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that could undermine ongoing rescue operations.
“We are deeply distressed by this unfortunate incident, but remain hopeful that the victims will be rescued safely. We appeal to the public to remain calm, avoid speculation and support ongoing efforts with prayers,” the statement added.
The family also called on anyone with useful information that could aid the rescue operation to promptly share such intelligence with security agencies through the appropriate channels.
It assured that it would continue to cooperate fully with law enforcement authorities and provide updates as investigations and rescue efforts progress.