FID-IRT operatives recover Mrs. Olaide John-Paul and children unharmed following coordinated intelligence-led operation in Ibadan

The Nigeria Police Force has successfully rescued Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul (43), the younger sister of former Power Minister Adebayo Adelabu, and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, who were abducted on 3 June 2026 in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The hostages were rescued during a coordinated operation by the Force Intelligence Department Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) at approximately 7:30 pm on Saturday, 6 June 2026.

Mrs. John-Paul and her sons Peter and Paul had been abducted three days earlier whilst the mother was driving them to school at about 7:30 am on 3 June from the Elewura area of Challenge, Ibadan South-West Local Government Area.

The Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, confirmed the successful operation in an official statement released Saturday.

“The hostages were rescued during a coordinated operation by the Force Intelligence Department Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) in Ibadan,” the statement read.

Rescue operation achieved through intelligence gathering

The rescue of Mrs. Olaide John-Paul and her twin sons was achieved through sustained intelligence gathering, surveillance, and tactical operations conducted by police investigators. These efforts enabled the FID-IRT team to track the kidnappers’ movements, locate the victims, and execute the rescue operation.

During the confrontation between police operatives and the kidnappers, two suspected abductors were fatally wounded. Police recovered two rifles from the scene of the confrontation, which are being documented as exhibits in the ongoing investigation.

Rescue outcomes and victim status

The victims, Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, Peter, and Paul, were rescued unharmed following the successful operation. All three are now in safe custody and receiving medical care and support from police and relevant authorities.

Oyo police spokesperson Olayinka Olushola had earlier confirmed the rescue, stating “Yes they have been rescued unhurt” in response to inquiries about the operation by TheCable.

The Inspector-General of Police commended the rescue operation and personnel involved.

“The Inspector-General of Police commends the courage, professionalism, and effectiveness of the FID-IRT operatives and all officers involved. Their resilience and commitment were instrumental in the safe rescue of the hostages,” the statement read.

Victim’s background and family context

Mrs. John-Paul is the youngest of Olufunmilayo Adelabu’s five children. She had previously worked at the Central Bank of Nigeria and First Bank Pension Custodian before voluntarily retiring last year. Following her retirement, she relocated to Ibadan with her twin sons whilst making preparations to eventually join her husband, John Paul, who had earlier relocated to the United States of America.

The kidnapping and subsequent rescue of Mrs. John-Paul and her sons represent a traumatic experience for the family, particularly for the 12-year-old twins who spent three days in the custody of armed kidnappers.

Rescue operation continues as suspects remain at large

Security operatives have intensified efforts in the Ibadan area to apprehend remaining members of the kidnapping syndicate who fled the scene. Preliminary intelligence indicates that some suspects escaped with gunshot injuries sustained during the confrontation with FID-IRT operatives.

“Security operatives have intensified efforts in the area to apprehend fleeing members of the kidnapping syndicate. Preliminary intelligence indicates that some suspects escaped with gunshot injuries. Operations are ongoing to track, arrest, and bring all involved to justice,” the police statement confirmed.

The ongoing manhunt for the fleeing suspects forms part of broader efforts to dismantle the kidnapping network and bring all perpetrators to justice.

police appreciation and commitment

The Nigeria Police Force acknowledged public support during the rescue operation.

“The Nigeria Police Force appreciates the public’s support, cooperation, and patience during the operation,” the force stated.

Police reiterated their commitment to combating violent crime and protecting citizens.

“We remain committed to combating violent crime, protecting lives and property, and ensuring the safety of all citizens,” the statement concluded.