A tragic incident in Ibadan, Oyo State, has led to public outcry after a student heading to sit for his West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) was fatally struck by a stray bullet allegedly fired by a police officer.
The victim, identified only as Taiwo, was in a vehicle with his father when the tragedy occurred on Tuesday morning along Gbagi Market Road. According to eyewitnesses, the boy’s father reportedly disobeyed a traffic signal and attempted to flee from law enforcement. During the chase, one of the pursuing officers opened fire on the vehicle, reportedly aiming to stop it but instead hitting the boy. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, he was declared dead on arrival.
News of the student’s death quickly spread, prompting residents to stage a protest in the Alakia–Gbagi area. The demonstrators carried the student’s body to the Oyo State Government Secretariat, demanding justice and swift action against those responsible. They were met by the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Security Matters, who assured them of the government’s commitment to uncovering the truth and ensuring accountability.
While the Oyo State Police Command has yet to release an official statement, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has strongly condemned the shooting. The student body issued a 24-hour ultimatum to authorities, demanding the immediate arrest and prosecution of the officer involved. NANS described the incident as both tragic and shameful, calling for decisive steps to prevent further loss of innocent lives.
