The Nigerian police has arrested a police officer who mistakenly shot and killed a 14-year-old WASSCE candidate in Ibadan.
It was gathered that the tragic incident occurred on Tuesday along Gbagi-Alakia road when the student, Kehinde Alade, was on his way to write his Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Adewale Osifeso, the officer involved is a corporal whose name has been withheld.
The Commissioner of Police, Johnson Adenola, has ordered a full investigation into the case, which will be led by the Deputy Commissioner in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
The police revealed that the victim’s father, Odunayo Alade, was driving the vehicle and allegedly engaged in reckless driving.
It was reported that he was driving against traffic and trying to evade arrest during a joint traffic enforcement operation with the Oyo State Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA).
“Alade, who doubles as the parent and driver of a black Honda with registration number FST 639 JJ, rammed into the patrol vehicles of the Oyo State Transport Management Agency (OYRTMA) and a Police Buffalo Patrol truck while trying to evade arrest for reckless driving,” the police stated.
“However, in order to prevent further damage, a police corporal discharged a firearm aimed at the tyres. Tragically, the bullet missed and struck Kehinde Alade ‘m’, who was seated in the rear seat behind the driver.
“He was rushed to the University College Hospital (UCH), where he was confirmed dead on arrival,” the police added.
“His body has been deposited at the Adeoyo State Hospital mortuary for autopsy and preservation.
“To forestall any threat to public peace, the Commissioner of Police, CP Johnson Adenola, psc, immediately deployed tactical and intelligence units, including the Police Mobile Force (PMF), to the scene and other strategic locations in Ibadan. This swift response restored calm, ensured public safety, and allowed for normal activities to resume.
“The Oyo State Police Command extends its deepest condolences to the family of Kehinde Alade. The Command remains resolute in its commitment to upholding justice and ensuring accountability. Further updates will be communicated as the investigation progresses.”
