By Ayomide Otitoju
The Oyo State Government has demolished a building allegedly used as a hideout by the kidnappers of Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, sister of former Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, and her twin sons.
The demolition, carried out early Monday, came less than 48 hours after security operatives secured the release of the victims and was described by the government as part of its commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against criminal activities.
The exercise was conducted by the Ministry of Lands and Housing in collaboration with security agencies following intelligence reports linking the property to the gang responsible for the abduction.
Mrs. John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, were abducted on June 3 along the Elewura area of Ring Road, Ibadan, while she was taking the children to school.
Their freedom was secured through a coordinated operation by the Nigeria Police Force, which resulted in the neutralisation of two suspected kidnappers and the arrest of several others connected to the crime.
According to government officials, investigations carried out after the rescue operation identified the demolished building as one of the locations where the victims were allegedly held during their captivity.
The government said the action sends a strong message to criminal elements that properties used for unlawful activities would not be tolerated, reiterating its determination to ensure the safety and security of residents across the state.
