Tragedy struck in the Gbagi area of Ibadan on Tuesday morning as 14-year-old Kehinde Alade was fatally hit by a stray bullet on his way to sit for his West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
The teenager, accompanied by his twin brother and father, was en route to the exam centre when the incident occurred along the busy Gbagi Market road in Egbeda Local Government Area.
Confirming the incident, the Oyo State Police Command described the shooting as an unintended consequence of a traffic enforcement operation. According to the command’s spokesperson, SP Adewale Osifeso, the police were working alongside officials of the Oyo State Traffic Management Authority (OYTMA) when they attempted to stop a black Honda Accord allegedly driving against traffic.
The vehicle, with Lagos registration number FST 639 JJ, was being driven by Odunayo Alade—Kehinde’s father. Osifeso stated that rather than stopping, the driver reportedly accelerated in an attempt to flee, ramming into two OYTMA vehicles and a police patrol truck.
In the confusion that followed, a bullet struck young Kehinde, killing him instantly.
The death has sparked outrage among residents, with many questioning the use of live ammunition during routine traffic enforcement. Human rights groups have already begun demanding an independent investigation into the conduct of the police officers involved.
Kehinde’s tragic death has not only cut short the dreams of a promising student but has also reignited concerns about the handling of security and public safety operations in the state. His grieving family, still in shock, is calling for justice.
As investigations continue, residents and advocacy groups are urging authorities to ensure transparency and accountability in the case, stressing that no family should have to bury a child on what should have been a milestone day.
