A hunting trip in Ibadan, Oyo State, ended in tragedy on Tuesday, January 7, when 35-year-old hunter, Waheed Rasaki, allegedly shot his colleague, Femi Oyedepo, dead. The incident occurred in Oretan Ijaiye area of Moniya, located in the Akinyele Local Government Area of the state.
The Oyo State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr. Olayinka Ayanlade, disclosed the details in a statement issued on Wednesday from the state capital. According to the statement, the victim “slumped and died immediately” after being shot.
The PPRO said Rasaki reported himself to the Moniya Police Division later on the same day of the shooting. He admitted that the fatal discharge occurred by accident during a hunting expedition in Oretan Ijaiye Forest at around 2:00 pm.
“On January 7, 2026, at about 21:20 hours, Waheed Rasaki, male, 35 years, of Oretan Ijaiye Area, Moniya, reported to Moniya Division that earlier on the same date, at about 14:00 hours, he had mistakenly shot his colleague, Femi Oyedepo, male, during a hunting expedition at Oretan Ijaiye Forest,” the statement said.
Police officers, led by the Divisional Police Officer, quickly responded to the report and visited the scene, where they discovered the lifeless body of the victim. Rasaki was immediately taken into custody and is now facing investigation.
“The victim slumped and died on the spot. Police operatives promptly visited the scene, discovered the lifeless body, and arrested the suspect, who is currently in police custody. Further investigations have commenced. This case underscores the Command’s prompt response to both criminal and accidental fatalities, ensuring accountability and justice,” the PPRO added.
Hunting is a common practice in many rural areas of Oyo State, especially in forested regions such as Moniya and its environs. While it is often carried out for recreation or sustenance, the use of firearms carries inherent risks, particularly when safety protocols are not strictly followed.
In past years, accidental shootings during hunting expeditions have been reported in several Nigerian states, often resulting from misidentification of targets or mishandling of firearms. Experts stress that such incidents highlight the need for proper training, adherence to safety guidelines, and strict supervision during hunting activities.
The case has drawn attention to the need for stricter regulation of firearms used for hunting. While hunters are allowed to own licensed guns, authorities have warned that accidents can easily occur when weapons are handled carelessly or without adequate safety measures.
Police officials have assured the public that they will conduct a thorough investigation into the incident. They will examine all circumstances surrounding the shooting, including how the firearm was managed, whether safety precautions were observed, and the events leading up to the tragedy.
Oyo State Police have emphasized their commitment to prompt response and accountability in all cases of accidental or criminal deaths. By quickly apprehending the suspect and securing the scene, the Command aims to ensure justice for the victim and maintain public confidence in law enforcement.
“This incident is a reminder of the dangers associated with firearms and the importance of exercising caution during hunting or other activities involving guns,” security analysts noted. “Even an experienced hunter can make a fatal error if proper safety measures are not followed.”
Residents of Oretan Ijaiye and surrounding areas have expressed shock over the incident, describing it as a tragic loss of life that could have been prevented. Community leaders have urged hunters to adhere strictly to safety rules and for families to educate members on the risks of firearm use.
The police have also called on the public to remain vigilant and report unsafe activities or breaches of hunting regulations. By cooperating with law enforcement, residents can help prevent future accidents and protect lives in forested areas.
As investigations continue, the focus will be on determining whether Rasaki’s actions were purely accidental or if negligence played a role. Legal observers note that, under Nigerian law, even unintentional killings may carry serious consequences if it is found that the suspect failed to follow proper safety procedures.