The Oyo State Government has provided details surrounding the tragic death of a student who was killed by a stray bullet while on his way to sit for the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in Ibadan, the state capital.

According to the government, the incident occurred after the student’s father drove against traffic on Alakia Old Road, prompting a joint operation by the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) and police officers.

This explanation was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, who described the incident as “sad, shocking, and painful,” adding that it was entirely avoidable.

The statement read:
“OYRTMA officials, in conjunction with a police team, embarked on a traffic enforcement operation on Alakia Old Road following complaints from residents about frequent one-way traffic violations that have caused deaths and life-threatening injuries on the axis.

“Police backup became necessary after previous assaults on OYRTMA officials and the recent killing of one official by a traffic offender in Ibadan.

“On Tuesday morning, around 7:30 a.m., the father of the deceased student was driving a tinted black Honda Accord with registration number FST 639 JU against the traffic when officials attempted to apprehend the vehicle.

“It was during this attempt that a police officer, who is now under investigation by the state police command, allegedly aimed at one of the vehicle’s tyres. Unfortunately, the bullet missed its target and struck the student.”

The government urged residents to remain calm as investigations continue and reassured the public that justice would be served.

“We appeal to residents to stay calm while the police and the government handle the situation. We also strongly warn against breaking traffic laws, as actions like this can lead to tragic consequences,” the statement added.

The government further stated that steps would be taken to prevent such incidents from recurring.