By Joseph Erunke, Abuja

Legal advocacy group, Citizens’ Gavel, has condemned the killing of a 14-year-old boy in Ibadan, allegedly at the hands of operatives of the Oyo State Traffic Management Authority (OYTMA) and the Nigeria Police.

The incident reportedly occurred after the boy, who was en route to write his West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WAEC), was fatally shot during a traffic stop. His father, who was driving, had allegedly violated a one-way traffic regulation.

In a statement issued by its Legal Consultant, Funmi Adedoyin, Citizens’ Gavel described the act as an “extrajudicial killing” and a gross abuse of power by the law enforcement officers involved.

“The driver may have violated a traffic rule, but the punishment meted out was nothing short of extrajudicial murder. This is not just a tragic incident; it is a glaring example of the unchecked police brutality that continues to plague our country,” the statement read.

The organization lamented the recurring pattern of violence by law enforcement during routine duties, including traffic enforcement and checkpoint operations.

“From checkpoints to traffic control, law enforcement in this country too often resorts to violence, with little accountability,” it added.

Citizens’ Gavel acknowledged the directive by the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State to investigate the incident and bring the perpetrators to justice. However, the group emphasized that the investigation must be transparent and free from any cover-up or political interference.

“Justice must not only be done; it must be seen to be done. The officers involved must be held fully accountable under the law, without delay or excuses,” the group stressed.

Expressing solidarity with the victim’s family, Citizens’ Gavel pledged to monitor the investigation closely and ensure justice is served.

“The loss of this young boy is a painful reminder of how broken our policing system remains. His future was stolen in a split second by those who were meant to protect him,” the statement said. “Citizens’ Gavel stands with the grieving family and the people of Ibadan. This culture of violence and impunity must end. Enough is enough.”

The tragic event has reignited calls for police reform and greater accountability in the conduct of security and traffic enforcement operations across the country.