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TJ News Nigeria | Additional Reporting by Omajemite Don
A 17-year-old student scheduled to write the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in Ibadan, Oyo State, was tragically killed during a police operation on Tuesday morning.
The incident, which occurred near Gbagi Market Road, has sparked public outrage, prompting protests and calls for an official investigation.
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Key Details: What Happened?
- Location: Gbagi Market area, Ibadan, Oyo State
- Victim: 17-year-old WASSCE candidate
- Context: Caught in a police pursuit involving another vehicle
- Hospital: Welfare Hospital, Alakia – confirmed deceased on arrival
- Eyewitness reports: Shots were fired during the police chase
According to local witnesses, the student was being driven by his father, alongside his twin brother, to a WAEC exam center. The vehicle was allegedly hit by a stray bullet during a police chase.
Family and Eyewitness Accounts
A relative told TJ News Nigeria:
“He was with his father and brother. He was just going to sit for his WAEC paper when it happened.”
Eyewitnesses alleged the officers involved were from the Alabata Police Division. Reports suggest the officer believed to have fired the shot left the scene immediately afterward.
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Peaceful Protest at Oyo Secretariat
In response, demonstrators marched with the body of the deceased to the Oyo State Government Secretariat in Agodi, demanding justice. Protesters:
- Blocked access to the Secretariat
- Called on Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene
- Requested urgent police reforms and accountability
Doctor Assaulted During Chaos
Dr. Adeyoju Ayinla, a medical officer who attended to the student, was allegedly attacked during the commotion.
“Nine individuals approached and assaulted me while I was helping the victim. I held one of them to prevent escalation,” he said.
The hospital confirmed the doctor is in stable condition and receiving treatment.
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Police Yet to Issue Official Statement
As of this report, the Oyo State Police Command has not released a statement. Calls and messages to the spokesperson, Adewale Osifeso, went unanswered.
Public Reactions and Demands
Human rights groups and educational advocates have called for:
- Identification and prosecution of the officer involved
- Compensation and support for the victim’s family
- Independent investigation
- Institutional police reform to prevent similar incidents
Why It Matters
This incident has reignited national discussions on:
- Police-civilian relations in Nigeria
- Safety of students during national exams
- Accountability mechanisms within the police force
The death of a WASSCE candidate under such circumstances raises urgent questions about law enforcement practices and student protection during critical national examinations.
TJ News Nigeria’s Position
We stand for verified reporting, justice, and responsible journalism. We will continue monitoring developments and urge all stakeholders to prioritize transparency, legal due process, and the safety of young Nigerians.
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Related Reading:
- WAEC Result Checker Portal: How to Check Your WAEC Results
- WAEC Digital Certificate Portal: Retrieve Your Certificate Online
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