After spending nearly a week in captivity, president of the Junior Chamber International, JCI Ibadan chapter, and deputy coordinator of the Child Protection Network (CPN) in Oyo State, Ibukunoluwa Otesile, regained her freedom on Wednesday.
Otesile, who is also the daughter of Reverend Lekan Babatunde, was abducted last Thursday outside her father’s residence in the General Gas area of Ibadan. Her abduction had triggered widespread concern across civil society groups, child-rights advocates and faith-based organisations in the state.
Security sources confirmed her release to Fresh FM on Wednesday night, but details surrounding the operation that secured her freedom were not immediately disclosed.
The State Coordinator of the Child Protection Network, Dr. Rosemary Osogbo, also confirmed the development, noting that Otesile has been safely reunited with her family. Dr. Osogbo expressed gratitude for the support shown by stakeholders throughout the ordeal.
In a separate social media update, the Civil Society Organisation associated with Otesile expressed appreciation for her safe return, while appealing to the public to respect the family’s privacy as she undergoes recovery.
“To God be the glory, Ibukunoluwa is fine. In the meantime, the family would like to crave your indulgence for some privacy to allow her and the family recover. We would not be entertaining visitors for now. Kindly bear with us,” the group posted.
Her release has brought relief to many across Ibadan, particularly within advocacy networks where Otesile plays a prominent role in child-protection efforts.
Authorities are yet to confirm whether any arrests have been made in connection with the abduction.
