Gunmen abducts three Tinubu’s Ex-Minister Adelabu, family in Ibadan

The victims were identified as Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, 43, and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul. According to a statement issued by the Adelabu family, the abduction occurred at about 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday while Mrs. John-Paul was reportedly taking her children to school in the Challenge area of Ibadan.

The family said the gunmen  intercepted the vehicle conveying the victims and forcefully whisked them away to an unknown destination.

Confirming the incident, a family spokesperson disclosed that security agencies had been alerted and had immediately commenced efforts to rescue the victims and apprehend those responsible for the attack.

The statement described the development as a painful experience for the family, noting that Mrs. John-Paul recently retired after serving in both the Central Bank of Nigeria and First Bank Pension Custodian before relocating to Ibadan with her children.

“Adebayo Adelabu and the entire family are deeply distressed by this tragic development but remain hopeful and confident in the capacity of security agencies to secure the safe release of the victims,” the statement said.

The family appealed to the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information that could undermine ongoing rescue efforts. It also called on anyone with useful information about the whereabouts of the victims to assist security agencies through the appropriate channels.

The incident comes amid growing concerns over rising cases of kidnapping and violent attacks in Oyo State. In recent weeks, several abduction cases have been reported across different parts of the state, prompting calls for stronger security measures to protect residents.

As of the time of filing this report, there was no official confirmation that contact had been established with the abductors, while security operatives continued search-and-rescue operations aimed at securing the safe release of the victims.

Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies as investigations continue.