Odunayo Alade, father of Kehinde Alade—a teenage secondary school student who was tragically shot during a police traffic chase in Ibadan—has spoken out, demanding justice and answers over the heartbreaking loss of his son.
The incident occurred on Gbagi Market Road, where police officers and officials of the Oyo State Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) were reportedly in pursuit of a vehicle. During the chaotic chase, 13-year-old Kehinde, who was in the car with his father and siblings, was fatally hit by a police bullet.
Speaking to News Central, Mr. Alade, visibly emotional, recounted the tragic events. He explained that he was only trying to take his children to school on time when the incident unfolded.
“I take them to school every day and sometimes pick them up in the afternoon,” he said.
“That morning, after pumping my tyre at a junction, I noticed a vehicle heading towards me. I didn’t know it was OYRTMA. They tried to stop me and hit my car. I reversed to get away, unaware that four other vehicles were involved.”
As the pursuit escalated, Mr. Alade said he heard a sudden gunshot.
“My son was shouting, ‘Daddy, daddy!’ from the back seat. I told him to stay calm, thinking we had escaped. But his twin brother screamed, ‘Daddy, stop! Kehinde has been shot.’”
He revealed there were five children in the vehicle at the time. One of the officers allegedly opened the back door, saw the children, yet the violence continued.
Kehinde was immediately rushed to the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, but was pronounced dead on arrival. The young student, who was in SS1, would have turned 14 on November 26. His elder brother is currently sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
Mr. Alade also disclosed that he had been raising his children alone for the past seven years after separating from their mother.
“Their mother left us seven years ago. Since then, I’ve committed myself to raising them with all I have. I’ve turned down chances to remarry because my children have always come first.”
With tears streaming down his face, the grieving father called for justice:
“This must not go unpunished. Kehinde was a bright child with dreams. He loved going to school and had so much promise. His life was stolen by those meant to protect us. I need answers. I want justice—not just for my son, but to ensure no other parent suffers such a loss.”
The case has sparked nationwide outrage.
In response to the public uproar, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered a full-scale investigation into the shooting. According to a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the officer involved has been taken into custody while investigations are ongoing.
Meanwhile, the Oyo State Government acknowledged that Mr. Alade drove against traffic but vowed that justice will be served in the matter.
As Nigeria watches closely, the family of Kehinde Alade continues to seek closure and accountability over a life lost too soon.