Rita Odafe
Odunayo Alade
The Oyo State Police have announced that they cannot complete their investigation into the death of 14-year-old WAEC candidate Kehinde Alade without hearing from his father, Odunayo Alade.
Kehinde was tragically shot last Tuesday by a stray bullet, reportedly fired by a police corporal in the Gbagi-Alakia area of Egbeda Local Government in Ibadan.
The officer involved is currently under arrest at the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Iyaganku.
During a joint press briefing with Prince Dotun Oyelade, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, and Major Adekoya Adesagba (retd), Chairman of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Agency (OYTMA), Commissioner of Police Johnson Adenola revealed that an initial report on the incident has been compiled.
He emphasized that a thorough final report will be available only after receiving testimony from the deceased’s father.
A moment of silence was observed during the briefing to honor the young victim, whose death has provoked significant public outcry and calls for justice.
He stated, “The Inspector General of Police has instructed the Command to ensure a comprehensive investigation, which includes obtaining the father’s account of what transpired.”
“The police officer and one passenger from the vehicle have provided valuable information to the investigative team. The police officer is currently in custody, and further actions will depend on the investigation’s outcome. We keep the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, updated on daily developments.”
“This unfortunate incident might have been avoided if the father had adhered to traffic regulations. Alade, according to available information, has a history of traffic violations and was recently apprehended for similar offenses.
“I assure the public that the Police will conduct a meticulous investigation to ensure accountability for those responsible.”
In his comments, State Commissioner of Information Prince Dotun Oyelade promised the community that the case would not be overlooked.
“Our Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration is committed to justice. We will guarantee that justice is accomplished in this case.”
“The state government has also urged the Police to enhance their officer training in firearms management and public relations while promising support for the grieving family and condemning any misinformation surrounding the incident.”
Major Adesagba, Chairman of OYRTMA, also expressed concern over the rising incidents of traffic violations and the ongoing harassment of their officers.
He noted that this has compelled the agency to seek additional security for their operations.
He reported that there have been eight recorded cases of assault against his officials this year.
According to him, “Our personnel have sustained various injuries, including broken arms and legs. This has led to our decision to collaborate with the police for joint patrols to safeguard our officers during their duties.”
Describing the event as regrettable, he mentioned that the deceased’s father parked in a prohibited area on the 15th of this month and paid a penalty to the Oyo State government, urging residents to comply with traffic laws.
“The state government has also urged the Police to enhance their officer training in firearms management and public relations while promising support for the grieving family and condemning any misinformation surrounding the incident.”
