Police Inspector Shoots Himself Dead While on Duty in Ogun State

On March 14, 2025, a tragic incident occurred in the Igbesa area of Ogun State, Nigeria, where a police inspector, identified as Ajele Oloyede, reportedly took his own life with a self-inflicted gunshot while on duty. The event has sent shockwaves through the local community and the Nigeria Police Force, prompting an official investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. This article provides a detailed examination of the incident, the response from authorities, and the broader implications for mental health and well-being among law enforcement officers.

Details of the Incident

Inspector Ajele Oloyede was attached to the 78 Police Mobile Force (PMF) based in Zamfara State but was on a special duty assignment at Goodwill Ceramic Company in Igbesa, within the Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area of Ogun State. The incident took place on March 14, 2025, at approximately 1:20 p.m., according to the Ogun State Police Command.

A fellow officer, Tolorunloju Stephen, who was attached to the Force Headquarters Annex in Lagos and also assigned to the same security detail, provided a firsthand account of the events. Stephen reported that he had just returned from a trip to Ikeja and entered the security office at the company, where he found Oloyede resting his head on a table. After exchanging pleasantries and briefly inquiring about Oloyede’s well-being, Stephen noted that Oloyede responded positively, giving no immediate indication of distress. However, moments later, as Stephen stepped into the restroom, he heard a gunshot. Rushing back, he discovered that Oloyede had turned his service rifle on himself, resulting in a fatal wound.

With the assistance of private security personnel at the company, Oloyede was immediately rushed to Ota General Hospital. Despite the swift response, medical staff confirmed his death upon arrival. The firearm used in the incident was recovered from the scene, and Oloyede’s body was subsequently deposited at the hospital morgue for an autopsy to further investigate the cause of death.

Official Response and Investigation

The Ogun State Police Command, through its Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, confirmed the incident in a statement released on March 16, 2025. Odutola expressed the force’s deepest condolences to Oloyede’s family, colleagues, and loved ones, emphasizing the command’s commitment to supporting its officers during this difficult time. She also outlined the initial steps taken by the police in response to the tragedy.

The Commissioner of Police for Ogun State, Lanre Ogunlowo, has ordered a thorough investigation to uncover the circumstances leading to Oloyede’s death. The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Eleweran for a discreet and comprehensive inquiry. The investigation aims to determine whether there were any signs of foul play, underlying mental health issues, or other contributing factors that may have led to this tragic outcome. Preliminary reports suggest no immediate external threats or altercations preceded the incident, but authorities are leaving no stone unturned to ensure a full understanding of the event.

Broader Context: Mental Health in the Nigeria Police Force

The death of Inspector Oloyede has reignited discussions about mental health and well-being among police officers in Nigeria, a topic that has often been overlooked despite the high-stress nature of law enforcement work. Police officers in Nigeria frequently face challenging conditions, including long working hours, exposure to violence and trauma, inadequate resources, and societal pressure, all of which can take a toll on their mental and emotional health.

In recent years, there have been several reported cases of police officers in Nigeria exhibiting signs of distress, including instances of self-harm and suicide. For example, in 2023, a police corporal in Lagos reportedly shot himself in a similar incident, prompting calls for better mental health support within the force. These incidents highlight the need for systemic interventions to address the psychological challenges faced by officers.

Mental health experts argue that the stigma surrounding mental health issues in Nigeria, coupled with limited access to counseling and support services, exacerbates the problem. For police officers, seeking help may be particularly challenging due to the culture of resilience and stoicism often expected in law enforcement. Without adequate support systems, officers may internalize their struggles, leading to tragic outcomes like the one involving Inspector Oloyede.

Implications and Calls for Action

The death of Inspector Oloyede underscores several critical issues within the Nigeria Police Force and society at large:

1. Mental Health Support: There is an urgent need for the Nigeria Police Force to implement comprehensive mental health programs, including regular psychological evaluations, access to counseling services, and peer support networks. Officers should be encouraged to seek help without fear of stigma or career repercussions.
2. Workplace Conditions: The high-pressure environment of police work, particularly for officers on special duties far from their home bases, requires attention. Improving working conditions, such as providing adequate rest periods, better facilities, and support for officers deployed away from their families, could mitigate stress and burnout.
3. Training and Awareness: Incorporating mental health awareness into police training programs can equip officers with the tools to recognize signs of distress in themselves and their colleagues. Early intervention and support can prevent such tragedies.
4. Community and Government Involvement: Addressing these issues requires collaboration between the government, police authorities, and civil society. Increased funding for police welfare, partnerships with mental health organizations, and public awareness campaigns can create a more supportive environment for officers.

Conclusion: A Call for Reflection and Reform

The tragic death of Inspector Ajele Oloyede on March 14, 2025, serves as a somber reminder of the unseen struggles faced by many within the Nigeria Police Force. While the ongoing investigation will provide further clarity on the specific circumstances of his death, the incident has already highlighted the broader need for reform in how mental health and well-being are addressed within law enforcement.

As the Nigeria Police Force and the nation mourn this loss, there is an opportunity to turn this tragedy into a catalyst for change. By prioritizing the mental and emotional health of its officers, the force can not only prevent future incidents but also foster a more resilient and effective law enforcement community. For now, the focus remains on supporting Oloyede’s family and ensuring that his death prompts meaningful action to safeguard the well-being of those who serve and protect.