A joint traffic enforcement operation involving the Oyo State Traffic Management Authority (OYTMA) and the Oyo State Police Command ended in tragedy on Tuesday, May 20, when a 14-year-old boy, Kehinde Alade, was fatally shot during a police pursuit along the Airport Roundabout, Alakia-Adelubi/Airport Road in Egbeda Local Government Area.
According to a statement released by the Oyo State Police Command, the incident occurred at approximately 7:45 a.m. when enforcement officers attempted to stop a black Honda Accord (Lagos registration number FST 639 JJ) driven by Odunayo Alade, the father of the deceased. Police allege that Mr. Alade was driving against traffic (one-way) and refused to comply with officers’ directives, instead accelerating towards the enforcement team and ramming into two OYTMA vehicles and a Police Buffalo Patrol truck.
In response, officers set up barricades to halt the vehicle, but the driver reportedly broke through and continued driving recklessly. Fearing possible criminal activity or abduction, police initiated a chase. During the pursuit, a police corporal fired at the car’s tyres in an attempt to immobilize it, but the bullet tragically struck Kehinde Alade, who was seated in the back seat. The teenager was rushed to the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, where he was confirmed dead on arrival. His body has been deposited at the Adeoyo State Hospital mortuary for autopsy.
To prevent unrest, the Commissioner of Police, CP Johnson Adenola, immediately deployed tactical and intelligence units, including the Police Mobile Force, to the scene and other strategic locations in Ibadan. This swift response restored calm and ensured public safety.
The Commissioner has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). The officer who discharged the firearm has been taken into custody and is cooperating with investigators. The police command has pledged transparency and promised to make the findings public.
The Oyo State Police Command expressed its deepest condolences to the family of Kehinde Alade and reaffirmed its commitment to justice and accountability. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
For emergencies, the public is advised to contact the Oyo State Call Response Center at 615 or the Police Command Control Room at 08081768614, 09054133071, or 09061299291.
