Rescue of Adelabu Sister, Twin Children Draws Praise as Stakeholders Demand Urgent Action for Schoolchildren Still in Captivity
The rescue of the sister of former Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, and her 12-year-old twin sons has drawn commendation from stakeholders. They say the operation shows the strength of intelligence-led policing in protecting children and families from abduction threats.
The Oyo State Police Command confirmed the rescue during a coordinated operation in the Ayegun area of Oluyole Local Government Area. Four suspected kidnappers were arrested. Two others died during a clash. Officers also recovered firearms used by the gang.
Police said the children and their mother were abducted in the early hours of June 3 at Elewura-Challenge in Ibadan South-West. The abductors later moved them to a secluded residential building used as a hideout before the rescue operation.
Stakeholders in child protection and education sectors praised the swift response. They described it as a strong example of effective intelligence gathering and coordination among security agencies. According to them, such efforts improve outcomes in high-risk cases involving children.
However, stakeholders also called for similar urgency in other ongoing abduction cases. They pointed to schoolchildren and teachers still in captivity in parts of Oyo and Borno States. They stressed that these cases deserve equal operational attention.
In addition, they noted that every abducted child faces serious risk, regardless of location or background. Quick and consistent response, they said, can improve chances of safe recovery. Timely action remains critical in all abduction situations.
Experts further highlighted the need for psychological care after rescue. Children exposed to abduction often struggle with trauma. As a result, counselling and structured support are essential for recovery and reintegration.
Moving forward, stakeholders are urging sustained security efforts and stronger coordination. They insist that no abducted child or teacher should be left behind in ongoing rescue operations across the country.
