By Kolawole Omotola Olaide
The Oyo State Police Command has stepped up efforts to secure the release of the younger sister of former Minister of Power, , and her two children following their abduction in Ibadan.
The victims, identified as Mrs. Busayo John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, were reportedly kidnapped by armed men on Wednesday morning while heading to school along the Ring Road area of the Oyo State capital.
Security sources revealed that the vehicle in which the family was travelling was later recovered, prompting an intensive search operation by police tactical units and other security agencies across strategic locations in the state.
Speaking on the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Oyo State Command, , disclosed that the Commissioner of Police immediately ordered a coordinated response upon receiving reports of the kidnapping.
According to him, officers from the Challenge Division, supported by specialized tactical teams, were deployed to the scene to begin investigations and pursue leads that could lead to the rescue of the victims.
He assured residents that the command remains committed to ensuring the safe return of Mrs. John-Paul and her children while bringing those responsible for the crime to justice.
The family of Adelabu also confirmed the incident through a statement issued by his media aide, Femi Awogboro. The statement described the abduction as a painful experience and appealed for calm while security agencies carry out rescue operations.
Despite the distressing situation, the family expressed confidence in the ability of law enforcement agencies to secure the release of the victims unharmed. They also urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information that could jeopardize ongoing investigations.
The incident has renewed concerns about the growing challenge of kidnapping and violent crime in Oyo State. Political stakeholders and community leaders have called for stronger security measures to protect residents.
Reacting to the development, the Oyo State chapter of the (APC) urged Governor to strengthen security collaboration and review existing safety strategies across the state.
The opposition party expressed concern over what it described as an increasing wave of abductions affecting different communities, citing previous cases involving students, teachers, and other residents.
Former Vice President also condemned the incident, describing it as further evidence of the country’s worsening security situation. He stressed that insecurity affects all Nigerians regardless of political affiliation, social status, or occupation.
Atiku called on the Federal Government to adopt a more intelligence-driven approach in combating criminal networks responsible for kidnappings and other violent crimes.
Similarly, APC governorship aspirant expressed sympathy with Adelabu and his family, urging security agencies to deploy every available resource toward rescuing the victims.
He also encouraged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security authorities, noting that community cooperation remains essential in the fight against crime.
As investigations continue, residents across Oyo State remain hopeful that the victims will be rescued safely and reunited with their family.
