WAEC Candidate Shot Dead by Police in Ibadan
A secondary school student on his way to sit for the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) was killed this morning, May 20, 2025, by a stray bullet allegedly fired by Nigerian police at Akala Express, Ibadan, Oyo State.
Tragic Misfire During Police Chase
Eyewitnesses report that officers were in pursuit of suspected internet fraudsters—commonly referred to as “Yahoo boys”—when they opened fire on the vehicle’s tires. In the process, one of the bullets reportedly struck the student, who was seated in his father’s car en route to his WAEC centre.
The young boy was rushed to Welfare Hospital in New Gbagi but was pronounced dead on arrival. The incident sparked immediate outrage among residents and passersby.
NANS Condemns Police Action, Demands Justice
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has strongly condemned the police’s actions. In a press release signed by Michael Oyewole, Chief Press Secretary to the NANS President, the organization described the killing as “tragic and avoidable.”
NANS President Calls for Accountability
NANS National President, Olushola Oladoja, demanded:
The immediate identification and arrest of the officer involved.
Full prosecution under Nigerian law.
Compensation for the family of the deceased.
He emphasized that students across Nigeria should not be endangered by the very authorities meant to protect them.
Protests Erupt in Ibadan
In response to the incident, angry youths and sympathizers marched to the Oyo State Secretariat in Agodi with the victim’s body, calling for Governor Seyi Makinde’s intervention. The protest disrupted traffic and drew attention from security agencies stationed around the area.
The incident has reignited conversations about police accountability and the risks of excessive force, especially in populated areas.
Public Reaction and Ongoing Developments
The tragedy has sparked widespread condemnation on social media, with hashtags like #JusticeForIbadanStudent and #EndPoliceBrutality trending on X (formerly Twitter).
As of press time, the Nigeria Police Force has yet to release an official statement regarding the shooting.
Thewatch.ng’s Take
This heartbreaking incident underscores a recurring problem in Nigeria: a police force too quick to use deadly force, even at the cost of young, innocent lives. Thewatch.ng news calls for transparent investigations, immediate suspension of involved officers, and legislative reforms to curb police misconduct.
watch the video here: viewer discretion is advised.
