The Nigeria Police Force has rescued the sister of former Power Minister Adebayo Adelabu and her twin sons during a daring operation in Ibadan, Oyo State, killing two suspected kidnappers and recovering weapons.
The Nigeria Police Force has successfully rescued the sister of former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, along with her twin sons following a coordinated operation against suspected kidnappers in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The rescue operation, carried out by the Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT), took place on the evening of June 6 and ended with the safe recovery of the victims, the death of two suspected kidnappers, and the seizure of firearms believed to have been used by the criminal gang.
According to security sources, intelligence gathered by the police enabled operatives to trace the whereabouts of the abductors and their captives to a location within Ibadan. Acting on the information, the team launched a carefully planned raid at approximately 7:30 p.m., leading to a fierce confrontation with the suspects.
During the exchange of gunfire, two of the suspected kidnappers were fatally wounded, while other members of the gang reportedly fled the scene. Police operatives recovered two rifles during the operation, further weakening the criminal network behind the abduction.
The victims were rescued unharmed and immediately reunited with their family members after the operation. Emotional scenes reportedly followed the reunion as relatives welcomed them back after days of uncertainty and concern.
Former Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu was among family members present to receive the rescued victims. Witnesses described the reunion as deeply moving, with the former minister embracing his sister and nephews following their safe return.
The successful operation has drawn praise from many Nigerians and security observers, who commended the police for their swift response and intelligence-driven approach to combating kidnapping and other violent crimes.
Kidnapping for ransom has remained one of Nigeria’s most pressing security challenges in recent years. Criminal groups operating across several states have increasingly targeted commuters, students, community leaders, and family members of prominent individuals, often demanding huge sums of money in exchange for their release.
The rescue of Adelabu’s relatives has been cited as an example of how coordinated intelligence gathering and rapid deployment of security personnel can lead to successful outcomes in kidnapping cases.
However, the operation has also reignited conversations about the broader security situation in parts of the country, particularly regarding other unresolved abduction cases.
Some Nigerians have questioned why many victims of kidnapping remain in captivity despite ongoing rescue efforts by security agencies. The concerns are especially focused on the fate of dozens of schoolchildren and teachers reportedly abducted during a school raid on May 15 in the same region.
Reports indicate that 39 pupils and seven teachers are still being held by their captors weeks after their abduction, prompting renewed calls for intensified rescue operations and stronger security measures to protect educational institutions.
Security analysts argue that while the rescue of high-profile victims is commendable, authorities must ensure that all kidnapping cases receive equal attention regardless of the status or influence of those involved.
Experts have also stressed the importance of strengthening intelligence networks, improving surveillance capabilities, and increasing collaboration between federal and state security agencies to address the growing threat posed by criminal gangs.
The Nigeria Police Force has repeatedly reaffirmed its commitment to tackling kidnapping and violent crime across the country. Recent operations have resulted in the arrest of suspected kidnappers, the rescue of hostages, and the recovery of illegal weapons in several states.
As investigations continue into the latest incident, security agencies are expected to intensify efforts to apprehend the remaining members of the gang who escaped during the Ibadan operation.
For the rescued family, however, the successful operation marks the end of a traumatic ordeal. Their safe return has provided relief to relatives and supporters while serving as a reminder of the critical role security agencies play in protecting lives and combating criminal activities across Nigeria.
The incident also underscores the urgent need for sustained action against kidnapping networks as authorities work to restore public confidence and improve security nationwide.
