Tragedy in Ibadan: WAEC Candidate Killed by Police Bullet While on His Way to Write Exam

In a heartbreaking turn of events that has sparked widespread outrage and mourning, a young student en route to sit for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WAEC) was fatally shot by a police officer in Ibadan, Oyo State. The victim, who was accompanied by his twin brother and father, was caught in the crossfire when a police officer opened fire on suspected internet fraudsters. Tragically, a stray bullet struck the innocent student, ending his life in the most devastating way.

The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning as the family made their way to the examination center. According to eyewitnesses, the teenager, full of hope and anticipation for one of the most important academic milestones of his life, was seated in the backseat of his father’s car alongside his twin brother. The journey was one of quiet determination, as the boys prepared mentally for the exams they had worked so hard towards. However, the day took a horrifying turn when chaos erupted ahead of them.

Reports indicate that police officers on patrol had flagged down a group of young men believed to be involved in cybercrime. As tensions escalated, one of the officers discharged his firearm in what he claimed was a warning shot or an attempt to apprehend the suspects. Instead, the bullet veered off course and pierced the window of the family's vehicle, striking the unsuspecting student. Panic ensued as his father and twin screamed for help, desperately trying to save him. Nearby residents and passersby joined in the frantic effort, urging the officers to provide immediate assistance.

The boy was quickly rushed to a nearby hospital, with hopes that swift medical intervention could still save his life. Unfortunately, upon arrival, the medical team declared him dead, having succumbed to his injuries before any treatment could be administered. The news sent shockwaves across the community and triggered an outpouring of grief, especially among students, parents, and educators who were shaken by the senseless loss of a young life filled with promise.

The identity of the student has not been publicly disclosed out of respect for the family, but sources close to the family confirmed he was a bright and disciplined individual, known for his academic excellence and quiet demeanor. His twin brother, who witnessed the entire ordeal, has reportedly been left in a state of emotional trauma, unable to process the tragic loss of someone he had never spent a day apart from since birth. Family members have described the bond between the twins as inseparable, calling the incident a life-shattering event that no words could describe.

The father of the deceased, visibly shaken and overcome with grief, demanded justice for his son. Speaking to journalists outside the hospital, he lamented the recklessness and lack of professionalism exhibited by the police officer involved. "We were just on our way to the exam center. My sons were excited to write their papers. Now one is dead and the other is broken. How do I explain this to their mother? How do I live with this pain?" he said, struggling to hold back tears.

As news of the incident spread, residents of the area gathered in protest, condemning the increasing rate of police brutality and misuse of firearms. Many took to social media to express their frustration, using hashtags like #JusticeForWAECBoy and #EndPoliceBrutality to demand accountability from the Nigerian Police Force. The tragedy has once again brought to the fore the ongoing concerns about police conduct, particularly in how officers respond to perceived threats without considering the potential for collateral damage.

Human rights activists and civil society organizations have also weighed in, calling for an independent investigation and urging the government to ensure that justice is served. “This is yet another grim reminder of the dangers our youths face daily at the hands of those who are supposed to protect them,” said one activist. “We cannot continue to lose innocent lives and pretend everything is normal. Enough is enough.”

The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the incident and stated that the officer involved has been identified and taken into custody. According to a brief statement released to the press, the Command assured the public that a thorough investigation would be conducted and that any officer found guilty of misconduct would face the full weight of the law. “We deeply regret the unfortunate loss of life and extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased. We are committed to ensuring that justice is served in this matter,” the statement read.

Meanwhile, the WAEC office in the state has expressed its condolences to the bereaved family and promised to provide support to the surviving twin, including the possibility of rescheduling his exams. Several schools in the area observed a moment of silence in honor of the fallen student, and many students wore black armbands as a symbol of solidarity and mourning.

This incident adds to the growing list of cases highlighting the dangers of unchecked police power in Nigeria. Despite previous nationwide protests and calls for reform, such as the #EndSARS movement in 2020, many argue that little has changed in the way law enforcement officers engage with civilians, particularly the youth. Calls for systemic change are growing louder, with citizens demanding that the government prioritize police reform and the protection of human rights.

As the community reels from the loss, tributes continue to pour in for the young victim. Teachers, friends, and neighbors describe him as humble, intelligent, and full of potential. His untimely death has left a void that cannot be filled and a question that continues to echo: how many more young lives must be lost before action is taken?

The tragedy of a student leaving home to write an exam and never returning is one that no family should ever have to experience. As investigations proceed and Nigerians await justice, the story of the WAEC candidate lost to a police bullet remains a haunting reminder of the urgent need for change in the nation’s security framework.