Sunset turns tragic as grieving parent demands justice amidst official probe
Our reporter
The father of a 15-year-old boy tragically shot by police during a chaotic traffic incident in Ibadan has spoken out, expressing deep anguish and demanding justice for his son’s death.
Odunayo Alade, whose teenage son Kehinde was killed by a stray bullet allegedly fired by a police officer, described the heartbreaking moment the young boy died in his arms during a school run. The scene unfolded last week near Gbagi Market Road and has since sparked widespread protests across the city.
Set against the neon glow of Ibadan’s evening bustle—palm trees swaying and cinema signs flickering under the soft hues of sunset—what began as a routine school pick-up ended in irreversible tragedy.
“I was only trying to take my children home after school,” said Mr Alade, his voice breaking as he recalled the moment his vehicle was caught in a police chase. “I didn’t even know officials were pursuing me. My only mistake was reversing to avoid an altercation.”
Alade explained that he had just pumped a tyre at a roadside vulcaniser when Oyo State Traffic Management Authority officers attempted to stop his vehicle. A collision followed, leading to a high-speed pursuit involving four vehicles. During the confusion, a police officer reportedly opened fire.
“My son was in the back seat with his twin brother. I heard him calling out ‘Daddy, daddy’, but I thought he was panicking. I had no idea he had been hit,” said Alade. “It was his twin who cried out that Taiwo had been shot.”
Despite rushing him to University College Hospital (UCH), Kehinde succumbed to his injuries.
Police say the operation was targeting suspected internet fraudsters—commonly referred to as “Yahoo boys”—but Mr Alade insists he had no connection to the suspects. “There were five children in the car, and one officer even opened the door and saw them. I’m not a criminal. I’m a father doing his best.”
A single parent since separating from his wife seven years ago, Alade said he has made countless sacrifices for his children. “Their mother left us, and I vowed to raise them myself. I never remarried. Kehinde was in SS1, just 14 years old. He had a future. And now he’s gone.”
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has condemned the incident and ordered a full investigation. According to police spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the officer involved has been taken into custody pending the outcome of inquiries.
“The IGP assures the public that justice will be served,” said Mr Adejobi. “The process will be transparent and findings made public. Our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time.”
Alade, meanwhile, is left grappling with the void. “This shouldn’t have happened,” he said, tears tracing the outline of a father broken by loss. “I want answers. I want accountability. I want to ensure no other parent has to feel this pain.” He cried.
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