…as IGP Orders Full-Scale Probe, Government Vows Justice
The Oyo State Police Command has said it cannot proceed with a comprehensive prosecution in the killing of 14-year-old WAEC candidate Kehinde Alade without obtaining the testimony of the deceased’s father, Mr. Odunayo Alade, a key figure in the case.
Kehinde was tragically hit by a stray bullet allegedly fired by a police corporal in the Gbagi-Alakia area of Egbeda Local Government, Ibadan, on Tuesday. His father, Mr. Alade, is currently in custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Iyaganku, Ibadan.
At a joint press conference held Thursday, Oyo State Commissioner of Police, CP Johnson Adenola, alongside the State Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, and OYRTMA Chairman, Maj. Adekoya Adesagba (rtd.), addressed the incident and the ongoing investigation.
Adenola called for a minute of silence in memory of Kehinde and revealed that while an interim report has been submitted, a full investigation report required for prosecution remains incomplete without the father’s account.
“The Inspector General of Police has directed a thorough investigation. We must take the father’s testimony before concluding our findings,” Adenola said.
He added that although Mr. Alade had reportedly violated traffic regulations before the incident, the police are sensitive to his emotional state and have allowed time for him to mourn his son.
“We are aware of the emotional trauma. Justice will be served, and no stone will be left unturned,” he assured.
Adenola confirmed that the officer involved has been arrested and that a passenger who witnessed the event has provided valuable information. He noted that the IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, is being briefed daily.
Speaking on the avoidability of the tragedy, the CP said, “This incident might have been averted had the father complied with traffic rules. He has a history of traffic violations.”
Also speaking, Commissioner for Information Prince Dotun Oyelade reiterated the government’s commitment to justice.
“This administration under Governor Seyi Makinde will not tolerate injustice. The public can rest assured that this case will not be swept under the carpet,” Oyelade declared.
He highlighted plans to intensify public sensitization on traffic laws and civic responsibility, and praised the administration’s creation of the Rule of Law Authority.
OYRTMA Chairman, Major Adesagba (rtd.), decried the increasing assaults on traffic officers, citing eight cases this year alone, some resulting in permanent injuries.
He explained that these incidents prompted the agency’s request for police support during enforcement operations.
On the May 15 incident involving Mr. Alade, Adesagba revealed that he had parked in a no-parking zone and paid a fine, calling on residents to obey traffic laws and support public safety efforts.
