The streets of Ibadan were filled with grief and unanswered questions on Tuesday after the untimely death of 17-year-old Taiwo, a secondary school student who was killed by a stray police bullet while on his way to write his West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). (Image: The source magazine)
What should have been a pivotal morning for Taiwo—a day that marked his transition toward adulthood and academic progress—ended in tragedy, as he became the unintended victim of a police operation gone awry. The incident occurred in the Alakia area, where officers reportedly opened fire while pursuing a driver accused of driving against traffic.
Eyewitnesses narrated that the gunfire, meant to stop the fleeing motorist, struck Taiwo, who was seated in a car driven by his father. The vehicle was not involved in the chase. “They were just on their way to the exam center,” said Ayodele, a resident. “It was an innocent morning drive. Suddenly, gunshots, and the boy was hit.”
Blood-soaked video clips and photos from the scene have since circulated online, fueling widespread condemnation and igniting fresh conversations about police recklessness and the use of firearms in civilian areas.
Taiwo was rushed to Welfare Hospital in Alakia but was pronounced dead on arrival. His twin, family members, and sympathizers were inconsolable as they gathered in shock and anguish. According to a family member, the officer involved is believed to be attached to the Alabata Police Station and allegedly sought refuge at an Air Force base after realizing the impact of his actions—only to be turned away.
The tragedy also spiraled into further violence, as Dr. Adeyoju Ayinla, the medical professional who attempted to save Taiwo, was mistakenly attacked by angry youths who assumed he was affiliated with the police. “He had already lost too much blood,” Ayinla recalled. “And then, I was assaulted for trying to help.”
As of the time this report was compiled, Oyo State Police Command’s spokesperson, Adewale Osifeso, had yet to issue an official statement.
Meanwhile, Taiwo’s death has drawn widespread criticism from civil rights groups and concerned citizens who are calling for an immediate investigation and accountability. The public is also asking hard questions about the dangers posed by police officers who appear too quick to draw weapons in residential areas.
For Taiwo’s family, the pain is unimaginable. A father’s simple mission to support his son’s educational dream has now become a memory of irreversible loss. A young life, full of promise and potential, has been stolen—not by violence from criminals—but from the very institutions meant to offer protection.
