Protest Erupts in Ibadan After Police Stray Bullet Kills WAEC Candidate

Ibadan, Oyo State – Tension gripped parts of Ibadan on Tuesday as angry youths staged a protest at the Oyo State Government Secretariat following the death of a student allegedly killed by a stray bullet fired by a police officer.

The student, who was reportedly on his way to sit for the ongoing West African Examinations Council (WAEC) exams, was struck by the bullet near Gbagi Market Road in the early hours of the day. He was accompanied by his father and sibling at the time of the incident.

According to eyewitness accounts, the bullet was discharged during a police operation aimed at apprehending a suspect. The student was rushed to Welfare Hospital but was declared dead on arrival.

In response, enraged residents carried the student’s lifeless body to the Government Secretariat, demanding immediate action from the state government and justice for the victim. Protesters called on Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene and ensure accountability.

In a statement issued to Daily Post, Comrade Yemi Ezekiel Bello, President of the Save the Poor and Needy Charity Initiative (SPANCI), condemned the incident and urged the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to launch a thorough investigation.

“According to reports, a man was taking his children to school when police officers—allegedly in conjunction with OYRTMA—opened fire indiscriminately while pursuing suspected internet fraudsters and traffic offenders. A stray bullet struck and killed this young boy,” Bello said.

He added that the father, a single parent since his wife left seven years ago, had been devoted to raising his children alone.

“The officers acted unprofessionally, and this gross misconduct has now cost an innocent life. We call on all stakeholders to ensure justice is served,” Bello concluded.