A shocking incident has rocked the serene community of Itapo in Epe Local Government Area, where a 17-year-old boy, Michael Olaifa, was allegedly shot dead by a suspected member of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) in the early hours of Monday, May 26, 2025. The tragic event, which occurred around 3 a.m., has sparked outrage, protests, and a swift response from the Lagos State Police Command, who have apprehended the suspect and launched a full-scale investigation.
According to reports from the Lagos State Police Command, the suspect, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed, allegedly opened fire on young Michael Olaifa, killing him instantly. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, adding a layer of mystery and tension to an already grieving community. The suspect reportedly fled the scene immediately after the incident, leaving residents in shock and mourning. However, the police acted promptly, tracking down and arresting the individual, who has since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Panti, Yaba, for a thorough investigation.
The death of Michael Olaifa, described by locals as a vibrant and promising teenager, sent shockwaves through the Itapo community and beyond. Eyewitnesses recounted the harrowing moment when gunshots shattered the quiet of the night, followed by the discovery of the teenager’s lifeless body. “It was like a nightmare,” said a resident who requested anonymity. “We heard the shots, and before we knew it, Michael was gone. He was just a boy with his whole life ahead of him.”
The incident ignited a wave of anger and grief among Epe residents, particularly the youth, who took to the streets in protest. Carrying Michael’s body, the aggrieved demonstrators marched through major areas of Epe, chanting for justice and demanding accountability for the senseless killing. The procession, marked by raw emotion and cries for reform, brought the bustling town to a standstill as residents joined in solidarity, amplifying the call for answers.
The protests, however, were met with a heavy police presence. Security operatives, including officers from the Epe Division, deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd, a move that further escalated tensions. Despite the chaos, the police succeeded in retrieving Michael’s body, which was subsequently taken to a local hospital for preservation and further procedures, including an autopsy to aid the investigation. The use of tear gas and the sight of Michael’s body being carried away left an indelible mark on the community, with many residents expressing frustration over the handling of the situation.
Benjamin Hundeyin, the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, addressed the media, confirming the arrest and assuring the public that the investigation would be thorough and transparent. “The suspect is in custody, and we are working diligently to uncover the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident,” Hundeyin stated. “We urge the community to remain calm and allow the legal process to take its course. Justice will be served.”
The Oodua People’s Congress, a Yoruba socio-cultural group known for its vigilante activities in parts of Southwest Nigeria, has been at the center of controversy in the past. While the group often positions itself as a protector of local communities, incidents like this raise questions about accountability and the use of firearms by its members. It remains unclear whether the suspect was acting in an official capacity for the OPC or if the shooting was a personal act. The OPC leadership has yet to issue a public statement regarding the incident, leaving room for speculation and public debate.
For the people of Itapo, the loss of Michael Olaifa is more than a headline—it is a deeply personal tragedy that has exposed underlying tensions in the community. Residents describe Epe as a generally peaceful area, known for its rich cultural heritage and coastal beauty. However, this incident has highlighted issues of security, youth safety, and the role of vigilante groups in local governance. “We want to know why this happened,” said Tunde, a local shopkeeper. “If vigilantes are supposed to protect us, how does a young boy end up dead? We need answers, and we need them now.”
As the investigation continues, the Lagos State Police have promised to provide updates to the public, emphasizing their commitment to justice for Michael Olaifa and his family. The teenager’s death has also reignited discussions about gun control, community policing, and the need for better oversight of groups like the OPC. Community leaders are calling for dialogue between residents, security agencies, and local organizations to prevent future tragedies and restore trust.
Michael’s family, devastated by their loss, has appealed for privacy as they mourn. A family member, speaking briefly to reporters, described Michael as a “bright light” who dreamed of becoming an engineer. “He didn’t deserve this,” the relative said, tears streaming down their face. “All we ask is that justice is done for our boy.”
The incident in Itapo serves as a grim reminder of the fragility of peace in communities and the devastating impact of violence on families and neighborhoods. As Epe grapples with the aftermath, the hope for justice remains a unifying force, binding residents together in their quest for truth and accountability.
For now, the people of Epe wait anxiously for the outcome of the police investigation, hoping it will bring closure to a grieving family and a wounded community. The tragedy of Michael Olaifa’s death will not be forgotten, and his story will likely resonate as a call for change in the days and weeks to come.
Join our Whatsapp channel to stay updated always!
