The Oyo State Government has officially responded to a deeply tragic incident in Ibadan, where a student on his way to write the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) was fatally struck by a stray bullet.
The heartbreaking event occurred on Alakia Road during what was described as a routine traffic enforcement operation involving officials of the Oyo State Road Traffic Maintenance Authority (OYRTMA) and the Nigerian Police.
According to the government’s account, the student’s father was driving against traffic in a tinted black Honda Accord (registration number FST 639 JU), around 7:30 a.m., with the student and his twin brother as passengers. During the enforcement action, a police officer reportedly fired a shot aimed at one of the car’s tires to halt the vehicle. Tragically, the bullet missed the tire and instead hit the student, who later died at a nearby hospital.
Early media reports had speculated that the shooting might have been connected to a police chase involving suspected internet fraudsters, but the government strongly dispelled those claims. In a statement by Sulaimon Olanrewaju, the Special Adviser on Media to Governor Seyi Makinde, it was made clear that the shooting was not linked to any criminal pursuit but was part of a targeted crackdown on one-way traffic violators—a measure prompted by complaints from local residents about frequent road law violations and resulting accidents.
The student’s death sparked widespread outrage, with some angry youths carrying his lifeless body to the Oyo State Secretariat in Agodi, demanding justice and government action. The deceased’s body has since been moved to the Adeoyo Hospital morgue.
In its official response, the Oyo State Government expressed condolences to the bereaved family and confirmed that the police officer responsible for the shot is currently under investigation by the Oyo State Police Command. The government reiterated its commitment to ensuring a full investigation and taking appropriate action.
This incident not only highlights the dangers associated with poor enforcement protocols and the use of live ammunition during traffic operations but also raises serious concerns about law enforcement accountability and the protection of innocent lives during official actions.
“The state government clarifies that contrary to claims that the incident occurred while the police were chasing a suspected internet fraudster, the incident occurred during a routine operation against traffic infractions, carried out by men of the Oyo State Road Traffic Maintenance Authority (OYRTMA),” the statement read.
“OYRTMA officials, in conjunction with a team from the police, embarked on the traffic operation on Alakia Old Road following complaints from residents over constant one-way traffic violations that have led to deaths and life-threatening injuries on the axis.
“The government maintained that the father of the slain boy drove a tinted black Honda Accord car with registration number FST 639 JU against the traffic at around 7:30 a.m.
“It noted that it was during an attempt to apprehend the traffic offender that a policeman, who is already being investigated by the Oyo State Police Command, allegedly aimed a shot at one of the tyres of the car, which missed the target.”
Meanwhile, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) strongly condemned the shooting.
In a statement by National Public Relations Officer Samson Adeyemi, NANS described the act as “reckless and senseless,” calling for an independent and transparent investigation.
NANS demanded the immediate arrest and prosecution of the officer responsible, and urged the state government to compensate the family.
“We call for an immediate, thorough, and independent investigation to uncover the truth and ensure justice without fear or favour,” Adeyemi said.
“The officer responsible must be arrested without delay and prosecuted fully. Accountability is non-negotiable.”
“We also demand that the bereaved family be adequately compensated. While no compensation can replace the lost life, it is necessary to acknowledge their pain and hold those responsible accountable.”
Adeyemi added, “Unchecked brutality by law enforcement must stop immediately. NANS remains committed to protecting the safety and dignity of Nigerian students and citizens.”
“We urge all students and the public to remain calm and law-abiding as we seek justice. Together, we will ensure this tragedy does not go unanswered and work to prevent future incidents.”
At the time of this report, the spokesperson for the Oyo State Police Command, Adewale Osifeso, had not responded to calls or messages regarding the incident.
Watch the incident video below;
Here’s the full video. This is so painful to watch 😢 💔 pic.twitter.com/FNmzeCD3ui https://t.co/W48COImwf6
— Dami’ Adenuga (@DAMIADENUGA) May 20, 2025