Family of Slain 14-Year-Old Seeks Justice in Osun

The family of a 14-year-old boy, Ezekiel Olapade, killed during a shooting in Ilobu, Osun State, has written to the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu. They demand the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for his death.

In the letter dated June 23, 2026, the family's lawyers, Law Corridor, named Kareem Saheed, known as “Tanfeani,” and seven others as part of the group involved in the attack that led to the boy's death on June 21 in Ilobu, Irepodun Local Government Area.

The other suspects listed in the letter include Ganiyu Habeeb Olaide, Alani Odedowo, Yekini Ismaila (alias “Ayan”), Afeez Abass (alias “SS”), Adejumo Habeeb (alias “Jama”), Afeez Yekini (alias “Feleru”), and Oyeladun Muideen (alias “Akilapa Okinin”).

The petition comes after many people expressed anger over the teenager’s killing. He was reportedly hit by a bullet when armed men opened fire near the Irepodun Local Government Secretariat in Ilobu.

Eyewitnesses told PUNCH Metro that the armed men moved towards a palm wine joint opposite the council secretariat. They started shooting after noticing a man wearing a cap with the colors of a political party. The deceased was at his mother's palm wine joint and was not the target.

The spokesperson for the Osun State Police Command, SP Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed that the teenager died from a bullet wound during the shooting. He stated that another victim was taken to the hospital. He also noted that the main suspect and others involved were still on the run.

Ojelabi said the police identified Saheed as the leader of the attackers. He added that efforts to capture him and his accomplices were ongoing.

The petition claims that family members and other eyewitnesses recognized Saheed and the other suspects as those who took part in the attack.

The letter stated, “Our clients have informed us that following the incident, they, other eyewitnesses, and members of the community identified the above-named persons as individuals alleged to have participated in the attack which resulted in the death of the deceased.”

The lawyers also mentioned that the family provided photographs of the suspects and other materials, hoping these would help the Nigeria Police Force in the investigation.

The solicitors urged the IGP to start an immediate, fair, and professional investigation into the killing. They want to make sure that everyone found guilty faces justice.

The lawyers added that Ezekiel's death has left the family “devastated” and shaken the people of Osun State. They said the family is determined to see that everyone involved in the crime is brought to justice.

The law firm cautioned that any delay in arresting the suspects could harm evidence and put witnesses at risk of intimidation. They urged the IGP to ensure the immediate arrest of the suspects and anyone else who helped with the crime, while also protecting witnesses and the bereaved family.