By Rosheedat Akinkunle, JKNewsMedia Reporter
SEVENTEEN-YEAR-old Taiwo Alade lost his life to a stray bullet on Tuesday during a police-led traffic enforcement operation in the Alakia area of Ibadan, Oyo State.
The fatal shot, allegedly discharged by an officer aiming at a vehicle tyre, struck the student as he travelled to his West African Examination Council (WAEC) centre with his father and twin brother.
The teenager, seated behind the driver’s seat in his father’s vehicle, was hit as officers attempted to stop the car for alleged traffic violations.
He was rushed to the University College Hospital but was confirmed dead on arrival.
Witnesses said the officers, in joint action with the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), were attempting to intercept a vehicle reportedly driving against traffic.
The driver, later identified as Taiwo’s father, Odunayo Alade, allegedly refused to stop, prompting a police pursuit.
During the chase along Alakia old road near Gbagi Market, a police corporal fired at the vehicle’s tyres.
The bullet, instead of striking the intended target, pierced the rear of the car, fatally injuring Taiwo. Odunayo Alade said he was unaware his son had been hit until his twin brother noticed the blood.
Despite urgent efforts to save him, the boy succumbed to the gunshot wound.
The incident sparked immediate protests.
Aggrieved residents marched with Taiwo’s body to the Oyo State Government Secretariat, demanding justice and swift action against the officer involved. Calls for accountability echoed through the community as security forces attempted to maintain order.
Oyo State authorities issued a statement offering condolences to the bereaved family and reaffirmed that the operation was a routine traffic exercise, not a raid targeting suspected internet fraudsters, as earlier speculated.
The government described the death as “sad, shocking, and painful.”
The State House of Assembly joined the chorus of condemnation, branding the shooting “unwarranted and painful.”
Lawmakers demanded an urgent investigation and urged the police command to ensure accountability.
They also recommended psychological support and financial compensation for the family of the deceased.
An eight-member panel has been convened to interface with the police and report back with findings.
Meanwhile, civil society groups and community leaders continue to pressure authorities for transparency and justice as Taiwo’s death adds to growing concerns over police conduct during public operations.
