Tragedy in Ibadan: WAEC Candidate Fatally Shot by Police Stray Bullet While En Route to Exam Centre
A tragic incident unfolded in Ibadan, Oyo State, on the morning of Tuesday, May 20, when a police officer allegedly shot at a moving vehicle during a pursuit, inadvertently striking a West African Examinations Council (WAEC) candidate who was on his way to sit for his examination.
According to multiple eyewitness accounts, the police were engaged in a high-speed chase with a vehicle suspected of criminal activity. In an attempt to disable or stop the fleeing vehicle, an officer reportedly fired several shots. One of the bullets, however, tragically missed its intended target and struck a young male student who was in a car with his father.
The student, who was identified as one of a pair of twins, was reportedly on his way to his examination centre to write his WAEC exam. The incident occurred in broad daylight, heightening tensions among onlookers and passersby who witnessed the tragic scene.
The victim was immediately rushed to Welfare Hospital by concerned individuals and his father in a desperate effort to save his life. Sadly, upon arrival, medical personnel confirmed that the student was Brought In Dead (BID). The news of his death sent shockwaves through the community, particularly among students, parents, and education stakeholders.
Residents and community leaders in the area have expressed outrage and sorrow over the incident, calling for a thorough investigation and accountability on the part of the Nigerian Police Force.
Many have questioned the appropriateness of discharging a firearm in a populated area, especially during peak morning hours when students are commuting to school.
The deceased student and his twin brother had reportedly prepared diligently for their exams and were set to take one of the core WAEC papers that morning. The twin, who witnessed the incident, was said to be in a state of shock and trauma following the loss of his brother.
This incident has reignited calls for police reform and greater emphasis on law enforcement accountability, especially regarding the use of firearms in civilian areas.
Ibadan Residents have begun to raise their voices, demanding justice for the slain student and calling for stronger measures to ensure the safety of schoolchildren and the general public.
As of the time of this report, the police authorities have yet to issue an official statement detailing the events that led to the shooting or identifying the officer involved.