The family of former Minister of Power and All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Oyo State, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has confirmed the abduction of his younger sister, Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, and her twin sons in Ibadan.
In a statement signed by Adelabu’s media aide, Comrade Femi Awogboro, on Wednesday, the family disclosed that Mrs. John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, were kidnapped by armed gunmen at about 7:30 a.m. while she was taking the children to school.
According to the statement, the incident occurred in Ibadan, where Mrs. John-Paul had relocated after retiring from public service last year.
The family described the 43-year-old victim as the youngest of the five children of Mrs. Olufunmilayo Aduke Adegoke Adelabu. Before her retirement, she reportedly served at both the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and First Bank Pension Custodian.
The statement further explained that she had been preparing to join her husband, Mr. John Paul, in the United States after relocating to Ibadan with her children.
Following the abduction, the family said relevant security and law enforcement agencies were immediately notified and have commenced investigations into the incident.
It added that security operatives have already launched efforts aimed at rescuing the victims and apprehending those behind the crime.
The family expressed confidence in the ability of security agencies to secure the safe release of Mrs. John-Paul and her children, despite the distress caused by the incident.
Appealing to the public for restraint, the family urged Nigerians to avoid speculation and refrain from spreading unverified information that could undermine ongoing rescue operations.
It also called on anyone with useful information that could assist investigators to report such details through appropriate security channels.
The family pledged to continue cooperating with security authorities and said further updates would be provided as the situation develops.
