On Tuesday, May 20, 2025, a tragic incident occurred in Ibadan, Oyo State, when a 14-year-old student, Kehinde Alade, was fatally shot by a stray bullet fired by a police officer.

Kehinde was on his way to sit for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) with his twin brother, being driven by their father, Odunayo Alade, in the Alakia area of Ibadan.

According to the Oyo State Police Command, the incident happened during a joint traffic enforcement operation with the Oyo State Traffic Management Authority (OYTMA). The officers attempted to stop a black Honda Accord, driven by Mr. Alade, for allegedly driving against traffic. The police claim that the driver accelerated towards the enforcement team, ramming into two OYTMA vehicles and a police patrol truck, and continued to drive recklessly, prompting a police corporal to fire at the vehicle’s tyres in an attempt to immobilize it. Tragically, the bullet missed the tyres and struck Kehinde, who was seated in the rear seat.

Following the incident, Kehinde was rushed to the University College Hospital (UCH), where he was confirmed dead on arrival. The officer responsible for the shooting has been arrested, and the Commissioner of Police, Johnson Adenola, has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the matter, assuring the public of transparency and accountability.

The incident sparked outrage in the community, leading to protests. Sympathizers and traders carried Kehinde’s body to the Oyo State Government Secretariat, demanding justice. The Oyo State House of Assembly condemned the shooting, describing it as “painful and unwarranted,” and called for an immediate investigation and appropriate action against those responsible.

Governor Seyi Makinde expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as “sad, shocking, and painful.” The state government has pledged to work with the Oyo State Police Command to investigate the matter thoroughly and ensure that justice is served.

This tragic event has raised serious concerns about police conduct and the use of firearms during enforcement operations, highlighting the need for improved training and accountability within the police force.