UPDATE: Oyo Govt Reacts to Death of WAEC Candidate Killed by Stray Bullet, Launches Investigation

Summary

• Oyo State Government has confirmed the WAEC candidate was killed by a stray bullet during a traffic operation, not a police chase involving a fraud suspect.
• The victim’s father was driving against traffic when a policeman allegedly fired at the car’s tyre, accidentally hitting the student.
• The government has launched an investigation and promised justice, urging calm and warning residents against traffic violations.

Ibadan, Nigeria — The Oyo State Government has reacted to the tragic death of a secondary school student who was killed by a stray bullet in Ibadan during a routine traffic operation, describing the incident as “sad, shocking, and painful.”

The student, who was reportedly on his way to sit for the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), died when a police officer allegedly opened fire during an attempt to apprehend a traffic offender.

In a statement released on Monday by Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, the government expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family and promised to work closely with the Oyo State Police Command to ensure justice is served.

The government clarified that the incident, which occurred around 7:30 a.m. on Alakia Old Road, did not involve a chase after a suspected internet fraudster, as earlier reported. Instead, it happened during a routine operation against one-way driving violations, jointly conducted by the Oyo State Road Traffic Maintenance Authority (OYRTMA) and the police.

The operation was reportedly prompted by repeated complaints from residents over persistent one-way driving on the road, which had previously resulted in fatalities and serious injuries.

According to the statement, the father of the slain student had been driving a tinted black Honda Accord (registration number FST 639 JU) against traffic when officials attempted to stop him. During the process, a policeman allegedly tried to disable the vehicle by shooting at its tyre, but the bullet struck the boy instead.

The government stated that the officer responsible is already under investigation and urged residents to remain calm while the matter is being handled. It also reiterated the importance of obeying traffic laws to prevent similar tragedies.

The death of the student has sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for greater accountability and reform in law enforcement practices.