They also thanked members of the public for the concern, support, and prayers shown during the difficult period.
The former minister’s mother, Mrs. Olufunmilayo Adelabu, said the family is filled with gratitude following the safe return of her daughter and grandchildren. She noted that their release brought immense relief after days of uncertainty and emotional distress.
Speaking to journalists at her home in the Challenge area of Ibadan shortly after the rescue, she said the family was initially thrown into panic when news of the abduction broke, as the outcome remained uncertain for several days.
She added that the experience was particularly emotional for her, recalling that just a day before the incident, she had prayed for victims of the Oriire kidnapping, not knowing her own family would soon be affected by a similar tragedy.
Mrs. Adelabu also offered prayers for other victims still in captivity, expressing hope that they would be safely rescued and reunited with their families. She called for sustained efforts by security agencies and government authorities to address the rising cases of abductions and restore peace in affected communities.
The victims were abducted at about 7:30 a.m. on June 3, 2026, while Mrs. John-Paul was taking her children to school, leaving the family in shock.
Their abduction came shortly after a mass kidnapping incident involving schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, which had already sparked public outrage across the state.
Following the incident, Governor Seyi Makinde visited Adebayo Adelabu and assured him that security efforts were being intensified to secure the victims’ release.
A security source later confirmed that during the rescue operation, two suspected kidnappers were killed in a gun duel with police operatives, while two firearms were recovered from the gang.