Ibadan, Nigeria — The city of Ibadan is enveloped in grief and outrage following the tragic death of 14-year-old Kehinde Paul Alade, who was fatally shot by a police officer during a traffic enforcement operation in the Alakia area on Tuesday morning.
Key Takeaways:
- Kehinde Alade, a 14-year-old student, was killed by a stray bullet fired by a police officer during a traffic stop.
- The incident occurred as his father, Odunayo Alade, was driving him and his brother to school.
- The Oyo State Government and the Nigeria Police Force have initiated investigations, with the officer involved taken into custody.
- Public protests erupted in Ibadan, with residents demanding justice for the slain teenager.
- The tragedy has sparked nationwide discussions on police conduct and the use of force.
A Father’s Grief
On the morning of May 20, 2025, Odunayo Alade was driving his sons to school when he encountered officers from the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) and the police. According to Mr. Alade, he was attempting to reverse his vehicle after being hit from behind when a police officer opened fire, aiming at the car’s tires. Tragically, the bullet struck Kehinde, who was seated in the back seat. Despite rushing him to the hospital, Kehinde was pronounced dead on arrival.
“I am not a kidnapper,” Mr. Alade stated, refuting police claims that they suspected a case of abduction.
Public Outcry and Protests
The incident sparked immediate protests in Ibadan. Residents, students, and traders marched to the Oyo State Secretariat, demanding justice for Kehinde. The protesters carried placards and chanted slogans, expressing their anger and grief over the incident.
In response, the Oyo State Government expressed condolences to the Alade family and assured the public of a thorough investigation. The police officer responsible for the shooting has been taken into custody, and the Inspector-General of Police has ordered a comprehensive probe into the matter.
Community Reactions
The tragedy has resonated deeply within the community, with many expressing their sorrow and calling for systemic reforms. Local residents have shared their condolences and demanded accountability from law enforcement agencies.
Watch the Full Report
For a detailed account of the incident and subsequent reactions, watch the following news report:
Top Comments from X (Twitter):
@NaijaVoice: “Another young life lost due to reckless policing. When will this end?”
@IbadanCitizen: “We need justice for Kehinde. This is unacceptable.”
@HumanRightsNG: “The use of lethal force in traffic violations must be reviewed.”
@MamaAfrica: “My heart breaks for the Alade family. No parent should bury their child.”
@JusticeForAll: “Protests are not enough. We need policy changes.”
@YouthForChange: “This incident highlights the urgent need for police reform.”
@OyoObserver: “The community stands united in grief and demand for justice.”
@SafeStreetsNG: “Training and accountability are key to preventing such tragedies.”
@EducateNaija: “Kehinde was on his way to school. This is a national shame.”
@VoiceOfThePeople: “We must ensure this never happens again.”
The death of Kehinde Alade has ignited a nationwide conversation on police conduct and the use of force in Nigeria. As investigations continue, the public remains vigilant, demanding justice and systemic reforms to prevent such tragedies in the future.
