The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the arrest of an officer allegedly responsible for the fatal shooting of 14-year-old Kehinde Alade, a student participating in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), in Oyo State.
According to reports, the shooting occurred during a traffic stop involving both police officers and officials of the Oyo State Traffic Management Authority (OYTMA).
Kehinde, who was reportedly on his way to take an exam, was tragically killed during the encounter, prompting public outrage across the country.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) announced that the officer connected to the incident has been taken into custody and that a thorough investigation is now underway.
“The officer involved in the shooting has been taken into custody while a comprehensive investigation is underway,” the statement read.
The IGP also denounced the use of deadly force in what he described as a standard traffic operation and assured Nigerians that the matter would be handled with full transparency.
“The Nigeria Police Force reiterates its commitment to the protection of lives and property,” the statement added.
“We urge citizens to remain law-abiding and to channel grievances through lawful and peaceful means.”
In his message to the bereaved family, the IGP described the shooting as a tragic and preventable loss.
He extended “heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased,” calling the incident “deeply unfortunate and avoidable.”
The police have pledged to release the investigation’s findings to the public once concluded, reinforcing their stated dedication to justice and accountability.
