Celebration Turns Tragic: Trigger-Happy Policeman Kills Nursing Mother in Ekiti

By Achimi Muktar

What began as a moment of celebration turned into a heartbreaking tragedy in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, when a stray bullet fired by a police officer claimed the life of a nursing mother, Ifeoluwa Adekolu.

The Tragic Incident

The shocking incident occurred at the Oke-Ila Police Station, where an officer, reportedly transferred from another division, discharged his firearm to celebrate a colleague's recent promotion.

Standing innocently across the road from the police station, Mrs. Adekolu was struck by a stray bullet from the celebratory gunfire. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, the young mother was tragically pronounced dead on arrival.

Police Confirm Incident

Ekiti State Commissioner of Police, Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) Adewale Adeniran, confirmed the devastating event, expressing the command’s sorrow over the loss.

“The officer involved is currently detained and will undergo thorough interrogation in line with the Nigeria Police Act,” AIG Adeniran said. “This is a tragic and regrettable incident, and the Ekiti State Police Command is committed to ensuring justice is served.”

A Celebration Gone Horribly Wrong

The officer, whose name has yet to be disclosed, reportedly arrived at the station in high spirits to celebrate a colleague's promotion. However, the moment of joy quickly spiraled into a fatal mistake, highlighting the dangers of careless firearm usage.

Calls for Accountability

The incident has sparked outrage in the local community and beyond, with calls for stricter measures to prevent such reckless use of firearms by law enforcement officers. Advocacy groups and citizens are demanding justice for Mrs. Adekolu and her grieving family, urging the police to ensure that the officer responsible faces appropriate consequences.

A Life Cut Short

Ifeoluwa Adekolu leaves behind a grieving family, including her young child, who will now grow up without their mother. The tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the responsibilities that come with carrying a firearm and the devastating consequences of negligence.

As investigations continue, the Ekiti State Police Command has pledged transparency and a swift resolution to the case, promising justice for the late Mrs. Adekolu and her family.