A schoolboy identified only as Taiwo was reportedly killed by a stray bullet allegedly fired by a police officer in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Tuesday. This incident triggered protests in the Alakia–Gbagi area as the victim was on his way to take the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
The shooting occurred on Gbagi Market Road during rush hour when the boy’s father allegedly violated a traffic signal. In an attempt to evade arrest, he was pursued by police officers. Witnesses reported that one officer fired at the fleeing vehicle, intending to disable it, but struck the boy instead. The child was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.
In response to the incident, an aggrieved public carried the boy’s remains to the Oyo State Government Secretariat, demanding justice and accountability. They were met by the governor’s Executive Assistant on Security, who assured them that the government would take action.
The Oyo State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement regarding the shooting. Meanwhile, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) condemned the incident, giving authorities a 24-hour ultimatum to ensure justice. They labeled the killing as a disgrace and called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of the responsible officer.
The Oyo State Government has stated that the boy’s father was driving against traffic when the incident occurred and promised to collaborate with the police to investigate the matter thoroughly.
