The Oyo State Police Command has opened an investigation into the kidnap of Mrs Busayo John-Paul, younger sister of former Minister of Power Chief Adebayo Adelabu, and her twin sons Peter and Paul.
Busayo, 43, and her 12-year-old sons were seized by armed men around 7:30 am on Wednesday while she was dropping the children off at school along Ring Road, Ibadan.
Confirming the incident, Police Public Relations Officer Olayinka Ayanlade said the command had deployed tactical units and other operational assets to secure their release and track down the kidnappers.
Ayanlade added that the Commissioner of Police directed the DPO of Challenge Division, working with other tactical teams, to move to the scene where the victim’s vehicle was recovered and begin intensive investigation.
“The command wants to reassure the public that all resources have been mobilised to ensure the victims are rescued safely and those behind this crime are arrested,” he said.
The police also urged residents to share any credible information that could aid investigations.
Adelabu’s media aide, Femi Awogboro, earlier confirmed the abduction. In a statement, the family identified the victim as Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul and said: “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 Mrs John-Paul and her children.”
The family appealed to the public to stay calm and avoid spreading unverified details that could hinder rescue efforts.
Reacting, the Oyo APC urged Governor Seyi Makinde to collaborate with security agencies to address the rising insecurity in the state. Publicity Secretary Olawale Sadare said the party wants a review of the state’s security framework to better protect lives and property.
The APC noted the kidnap comes amid unresolved cases in Oriire LGA and the abduction of two staff of the Cocoa Research Institute in Oluyole LGA. The party also recalled the December 2025 abduction of its chieftain, Wale Oriade, in Ibadan.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, through his media aide Phrank Shaibu, described the incident as proof of Nigeria’s worsening kidnapping crisis. “The fact that kidnappers could strike in such a busy public space without fear speaks volumes. Kidnappers don’t check party cards. They don’t care if you’re a minister, trader, teacher or farmer,” he said.
