A tragic incident unfolded on Tuesday morning in Ibadan, as a student writing the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) exams was fatally hit by a stray bullet fired by a police officer during a high-speed chase.
The incident occurred along Gbagi Market Road, where police were in pursuit of a fleeing vehicle suspected to be occupied by internet fraudsters, popularly known as “Yahoo Boys.” In the course of the chase, a bullet missed its intended target and struck the student, who was on a motorcycle with his twin brother.
The victim was on his way to sit for his WAEC exam at the time of the incident. He was rushed to Welfare Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.
The tragic death sparked protests from traders and sympathizers, who marched to the Oyo State Secretariat carrying the boy’s body and demanding justice. In response, security operatives were deployed to control the growing crowd, as calls for accountability and urgent police reform grew louder.
PRESS STATEMENT
May 20, 2025
NANS PRESIDENT CONDEMNS POLICE KILLING OF WAEC CANDIDATE, DEMANDS JUSTICE IMMEDIATELY
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) is deeply outraged and heartbroken by the senseless and avoidable killing of a young Nigerian student who was participating in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WAEC). Preliminary reports indicate that the student was struck by a stray bullet fired by a police officer in the Alakia area of Ibadan, Oyo State.
This devastating event highlights the recurring issue of unchecked recklessness, brutality, and disregard for human life by some elements within the Nigerian Police Force. That a student—innocently pursuing his education—could be killed in this manner is both shocking and utterly unacceptable.
Comrade Olushola Oladoja, President of NANS, strongly asserts that under no circumstances should live ammunition be discharged in civilian areas, particularly near schools or examination centers. The right to life is fundamental and must be protected at all costs. This loss is not just a personal tragedy—it is a national one, striking at the very hope and future of Nigeria’s youth.
NANS hereby demands the following:
- Immediate identification and arrest of the officer involved.
- A thorough and transparent investigation into the incident, with findings made public.
- Swift prosecution of the responsible officer in accordance with the law.
- Adequate compensation for the family of the deceased.
- Urgent institutional reforms in the Nigeria Police Force, including improved training on engagement and crowd control protocols.
NANS calls on the Federal Government, Oyo State Government, the Inspector General of Police, Oyo State Commissioner of Police, and relevant human rights organizations to act decisively to address this incident and the broader issue of police brutality across the country.
Michael Oyewole
Chief Press Secretary
To the NANS National President
