WAEC Dreams Shattered: Fatal Police Chase Claims Student’s Life in Ibadan [VIDEOS]

 

WAEC Dreams Shattered: Fatal Police Chase Claims Student’s Life in Ibadan

A tragic incident on Monday morning along Akala Expressway in Ibadan has left a family devastated and a community in mourning after a secondary school student was fatally shot on his way to write his WAEC examination.

Eyewitnesses report that Nigerian police officers were chasing suspected internet fraudsters, commonly referred to as “Yahoo boys.” During the high-speed pursuit, officers allegedly fired shots at the suspects’ vehicle, aiming to stop it by bursting its tires. In a fatal miscalculation, one of the bullets struck a young boy walking by the roadside, fully dressed in his school uniform and heading to his exam center.

He died at the scene.

The victim, whose name has yet to be officially released, was described by locals as bright, respectful, and full of promise. His school materials, including his ID card and exam slip, were found beside his body. Eyewitness videos and photos quickly spread across social media, sparking outrage nationwide. The hashtag #JusticeForIbadanStudent began trending as Nigerians called for immediate accountability and systemic police reform.

Popular broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat arrived shortly after the incident and went live from the scene, emotionally condemning the reckless use of firearms in public areas. His presence helped amplify calls for justice, especially among young Nigerians already frustrated with recurring cases of police brutality.

As of the time of reporting, the Oyo State Police Command has not released an official statement. Attempts to contact the command’s Public Relations Officer have been unsuccessful, deepening public concern and suspicion of a cover-up.

The student’s school observed a moment of silence, and classes were suspended for the day. Teachers and peers described him as one of the school’s most promising candidates. “He was excited about today’s paper,” said one classmate. “We never thought it would be the last time we’d see him.”

This incident has reignited painful memories of the #EndSARS protests in 2020, during which thousands of Nigerians took to the streets to demand an end to police brutality. Despite promises of reform, many believe not enough has changed.

Civil society organizations and human rights advocates are demanding the immediate arrest and prosecution of the officers involved, along with a transparent investigation into the use of lethal force in populated civilian areas.

For the grieving family, no justice will bring their son back. For the country, his death is a stark reminder that even a child holding a pen and heading to school is not safe. Until accountability becomes a reality, the streets remain dangerous—not just for criminals, but for innocent students with dreams of a better future.

Happened at Akala express, Ibadan this morning💔💔!! Nigerian police allegedly chased suspected "yahoo boys" in a car, firing at their tires, but tragically hit a secondary school student heading to his WAEC exam by “mistake” …. Oriyomi Hamzat is currently at the scene too 💔 pic.twitter.com/vgw3RBV2oh

— Oyindamola🙄 (@dammiedammie35) May 20, 2025