The Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered a full investigation into the tragic death of 14-year-old Kehinde Alade, who was killed by a stray bullet allegedly fired by a police officer in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
Kehinde, a candidate in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), was reportedly on his way to his exam centre on Tuesday morning when the incident occurred along Gbagi Market Road in Egbeda Local Government Area.
He was accompanied by his father and his twin brother.
A statement released on Wednesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, confirmed that the officer involved in the shooting has been arrested, and a comprehensive investigation has been launched.
“The Inspector-General of Police has ordered a comprehensive investigation into a tragic incident in Oyo State involving personnel of the Oyo State Police Command and the Oyo State Traffic Management Authority, which led to the unfortunate demise of 14-year-old Kehinde Alade,” the statement read.
Dr. Egbetokun condemned the incident and offered heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. He also assured the public that the investigation would be transparent, and its findings would be made public.
“The officer involved in the shooting has been taken into custody. The process will be transparent, and justice will be duly served,” the statement added.
According to an earlier report from the Oyo State Police Command, the incident occurred after Kehinde’s father allegedly drove against traffic, prompting an altercation that involved personnel from both the police and the Oyo State Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA).
In the ensuing chaos, the teenager was struck by a bullet.
The death of the young student has sparked outrage and grief across the state, with civil society groups and residents demanding accountability and swift justice.
A candlelight vigil and protest are reportedly being planned by student unions and human rights advocates in the coming days.
