WAEC Student Shot Dead: Oyo Police Arrest Officer Over Tragic Incident in Ibadan
Tragic Shooting in Ibadan: WAEC Student Killed by Police Bullet
In a tragic and heartbreaking turn of events, a 14-year-old WAEC student, Kehinde Alade,
lost his life on Tuesday, May 21, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State.
However, the young boy, who was preparing to sit for his WAEC exams, was reportedly shot dead during a police traffic enforcement operation gone awry.
What Happened on That Fateful Morning?
According to the spokesperson of the Oyo State Police Command, CSP Adewale Osifeso, the tragic incident occurred around 7:45 a.m.
during a joint operation between the Nigeria Police Force and the Oyo State Traffic Management Authority (OYTMA).
The enforcement team had attempted to stop a black Honda Accord driven by Kehinde’s father, Mr. Odunayo Alade, for allegedly driving against traffic.
Rather than stopping, the driver reportedly accelerated to evade arrest, crashing into two OYTMA vehicles and a police Buffalo patrol truck.
Indeed the heat of the moment, a police corporal discharged his firearm, aiming to shoot the tyres of the fleeing vehicle.
Tragically, the bullet missed and hit young Kehinde, who was seated behind the driver.
Immediate Response and Medical Emergency
Eyewitnesses described the chaotic scene as officers and civilians rushed to help the wounded boy.
Moreso, he was immediately transported to the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan. Sadly, he was confirmed dead on arrival.
The news of the WAEC student shot dead sent shockwaves across the state, prompting outrage, grief, and demands for justice.
Police Reaction and Officer’s Arrest
In response to the public outcry, the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Johnson Adenola, ordered the immediate arrest of the officer responsible for the shooting.
Other members of the enforcement team were also taken into custody for questioning.
Although the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, has commenced a full investigation into the incident.
Command Promises Transparent Investigation
CSP Osifeso assured the public that the investigation would be handled with the utmost transparency and that justice would prevail.
Furthermore, the command extended its condolences to the family of the deceased, expressing regret over the incident and emphasizing its commitment to justice and accountability.
Who Was Kehinde Alade?
Kehinde Alade was more than just a statistic. He was a bright, ambitious student looking forward to a promising future.
His family and community described him as respectful, intelligent, and full of potential.
The fact that he was shot dead while simply being in a vehicle with his father has left many devastated and angry.
Eyewitness Accounts Reveal the Chaos
Several witnesses who were present at the scene said that the traffic situation had already been tense due to the morning rush.
According to one resident, the officers had been particularly aggressive in flagging down vehicles, causing panic among drivers.
“I saw the car being chased,” one witness recounted. “There was a loud bang, and suddenly people started screaming.
I ran towards the noise and saw the boy bleeding in the backseat. It was horrible.”
Father’s Account of the Incident
Mr. Odunayo Alade, still in shock, stated that he was simply trying to avoid harassment by the officials.
“I didn’t intend to break the law. I was afraid they would impound my car or extort me,” he explained through tears.
“Now, I have lost my son because of that fear.”
Legal and Human Rights Reactions
Several human rights organizations, including Amnesty International Nigeria and the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), have condemned the killing.
They have called for an independent investigation and the prosecution of all officers involved.
“This is yet another example of police brutality that must not go unpunished,” said a CLO spokesperson.
“The WAEC student shot dead in Ibadan must not be another forgotten name.”
Growing Concern Over Police Use of Force
This incident has renewed national concern over the use of force by law enforcement agencies in Nigeria.
Despite reforms and retraining efforts following the #EndSARS movement, cases of extrajudicial killings and accidental shootings continue to surface.
Public safety advocates argue that there must be better training in de-escalation tactics and a move away from deadly force, especially in populated urban areas.
Community Outrage and Protest
In Ibadan, students and community members gathered in protest on Wednesday morning, demanding justice for Kehinde.
They carried placards bearing messages like “Stop Killing Our Future” and “Justice for Kehinde.”
The protest was largely peaceful but underscored the growing anger and frustration among young Nigerians.
Social Media Reactions
On social media, the hashtag #JusticeForKehinde began trending, with thousands of Nigerians expressing outrage and solidarity with the grieving family.
Celebrities, influencers, and politicians also joined the conversation, urging the authorities to take immediate and transparent action.
The WAEC Board Reacts
In a rare statement, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) expressed condolences to Kehinde’s family
and urged law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of all students during the examination period.
“It is heartbreaking to lose a candidate under such tragic circumstances,” WAEC said. “Our thoughts are with his family and school.”
Calls for Policy Change and Police Reform
Policy experts and legal analysts have called for stronger accountability frameworks within the police force.
Many have advocated for body-worn cameras for officers, stricter use-of-force protocols, and psychological evaluations for armed personnel.
“This incident could have been avoided,” said Dr. Tunde Ayodele, a criminologist at the University of Ibadan.
“We need a complete overhaul in how our police engage with the public.”
Remembering Kehinde: A Community in Mourning
Schools in the local area held prayer sessions and moments of silence in Kehinde’s honor.
His classmates described him as a kind and cheerful boy who always helped others with their studies.
Teachers and school administrators have also expressed deep sorrow, emphasizing that no child should face such a tragic end.
Final Words from the Family
In a heartfelt statement, Kehinde’s family thanked the public for their support and urged for calm as the investigation unfolds.
“We are heartbroken,” his mother said. “All we want now is justice for our son.”
Do you think Nigerian police officers are adequately trained for civil engagements?
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