Oyo Government Reacts as Police Bullet Kills Schoolboy During Traffic Stop in Ibadan

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde

The Oyo State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the death of a secondary school student who was accidentally killed by a stray bullet allegedly fired by a police officer during a routine traffic enforcement operation in Ibadan on Tuesday morning.

In a statement issued by Dr. Suleimon Olanrewaju, Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, the government described the incident as tragic, shocking, and entirely avoidable. The fatal shooting occurred at the Alakia area along Old Ife Road, during an operation conducted jointly by the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) and a police team.

The government disclosed that the operation was aimed at curbing frequent traffic violations in the area following multiple complaints from residents. At approximately 7:30 a.m., officials attempted to stop a tinted black Honda Accord with registration number FST 639 JU, which was being driven against traffic by the father of the deceased boy.

According to the government’s account, during the attempt to apprehend the traffic violator, a policeman allegedly aimed to shoot one of the car's tyres but missed and fatally struck the child. The government clarified that contrary to rumors, the operation had nothing to do with a chase involving a suspected internet fraudster.

The government assured the public that it would collaborate closely with the Oyo State Police Command to investigate the incident thoroughly and ensure that justice is served. It also urged residents to remain calm while the investigation is underway and warned against any form of civil disturbance.

Reiterating the need for traffic law compliance, the government emphasized that the tragedy was the result of a chain of avoidable actions beginning with a traffic violation. It called on motorists across the state to obey all road regulations to prevent similar occurrences.