Gladness Gideon
A tragic incident unfolded Tuesday morning in Ibadan when a secondary school student en route to sit for his West African Examinations Council (WAEC) paper was fatally struck by a stray police bullet during a high-speed chase.
The student, whose identity has yet to be officially disclosed, was riding on a motorcycle with his twin brother along Gbagi Market Road when a police officer pursuing a suspected internet fraudster opened fire. One of the bullets reportedly missed its intended target and struck the boy.
Eyewitnesses said the teenager was immediately rushed to Welfare Hospital, but medical personnel confirmed he was dead on arrival.
The victim was said to be dressed in his school uniform, carrying his examination materials at the time of the incident, which added to the emotional toll on bystanders and local residents.
Outraged by the incident, angry traders and sympathisers mobilised in protest, marching to the Oyo State Government Secretariat with the deceased’s body. The demonstrators demanded justice, denouncing what they described as excessive and reckless use of force by law enforcement officers.
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Chants of sorrow and calls for police reform echoed through the entrance of the secretariat, prompting the deployment of security personnel to prevent escalation.
As of press time, both the Oyo State Police Command and the state government had yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.
The tragedy has reignited concerns over police conduct in high-density civilian areas, especially during pursuits and operations, with many calling for immediate review of police engagement protocols to prevent further loss of innocent lives.
The victim’s family and the broader community are now left grieving a young life cut short on a day meant to mark a major academic milestone.