The father of 14-year-old Kehinde Paul Alade, who was fatally struck by a police stray bullet in Ibadan, has called for justice over his son’s tragic death. The incident occurred on Tuesday in the Alakia area of the city while Mr. Odunayo Alade was driving his son and brother to school.
Rejecting police claims that the officers suspected a kidnapping, Mr. Alade stated, “I am not a kidnapper. I was shocked to hear that the police said they suspected an abduction. That is completely false.”
The Oyo State Police Command, through its spokesperson, Adewale Osifeso, had earlier said that officers acted based on suspicion of a possible abduction or other criminal activity.
During a condolence visit to the family’s home in Alakia, family friend and medical practitioner Dr. Oluwamayowa Oke condemned the shooting and criticized the broader issue of police brutality. He urged the Nigeria Police Force to prioritize the protection of innocent citizens.
Amid public outrage, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident. The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed that the officer responsible for the shooting has been taken into custody.
“The Inspector-General of Police has directed a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the fatal shooting involving personnel from the Oyo State Police Command and the Oyo State Traffic Management Authority, which led to the death of young Kehinde Alade,” Adejobi said. “The findings will be made public to ensure justice is served. The IGP extends his deepest condolences to the bereaved family.”
Meanwhile, the Oyo State government has weighed in, stating that Mr. Alade was driving against traffic at the time of the incident.