Tragedy in Epe: Lagos Police Arrest OPC Member Over Killing of 17-Year-Old Michael Olaifa

In a heartbreaking incident that has sparked outrage and protests in Lagos State, the police have arrested a suspected member of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) for allegedly shooting and killing a 17-year-old boy, Michael Olaifa, in the early hours of Monday, May 26, 2025.

The unfortunate incident took place in the Itapo community of Epe Local Government Area, and according to eyewitnesses, the shooting happened around 3 a.m., under circumstances that remain unclear.

What Happened in Epe?

Residents of Itapo, a usually quiet community in the Epe area of Lagos State, were thrown into chaos when news spread that a local teenager, Michael Olaifa, had been fatally shot. The person responsible was reportedly an unidentified OPC member, who fired the fatal shot and then fled the scene immediately after committing the act.

According to eyewitness reports and information gathered by NaijaRush, Michael was not engaged in any criminal activity or confrontation at the time of the shooting. His sudden and violent death left many in the community stunned and heartbroken.

“A 17-year-old boy was tragically shot d3ad by an OPC member at 3 am in Epe. The suspect fled the scene immediately after the incident. In response, angry youths and community members took to the streets, carrying the victim’s corpse in a protest from Itapo to highlight their outrage over the loss,” a witness narrated.

This account reflects the raw anger and disbelief that swept through the area as people demanded answers about why a young life was cut short so violently and without reason.

Community Outrage Sparks Protest

As soon as the news of Michael Olaifa's death spread, angry youths and residents of Epe organized a spontaneous and emotional protest. In an intense expression of grief and anger, the crowd carried Michael’s lifeless body through major streets in the Epe community.

The protesters marched from Itapo through various parts of Epe, demanding justice and answers. They chanted slogans, raised placards, and called on the Lagos State Government and the Nigeria Police Force to immediately investigate the case and bring the killer to justice.

The atmosphere was tense, and the demonstration drew attention to the growing frustration of young Nigerians who often feel unprotected and unheard, especially when victims are poor or powerless.

The protest continued to gather momentum and soon attracted the attention of security agencies. The Lagos State Police Command, in collaboration with other security operatives, responded quickly in a bid to control the situation and restore order.

Police Response and Intervention

Upon receiving reports of the unrest, the Lagos Police swiftly moved to disperse the crowd and prevent further escalation. According to statements from witnesses, the police used tear gas and fired warning shots into the air to break up the protest.

“The police and security agencies intervened, using gunshot tear gas to disperse the crowd, and retrieved the corpse, taking it to the hospital for further procedures,” another witness said.

Although their intention was to maintain peace, the use of force further angered some protesters, who felt that the police should be focused on arresting the suspect rather than silencing those seeking justice.

Lagos Police Confirm Arrest of OPC Member

After several hours of tension and investigation, the Lagos State Police Command finally announced a breakthrough in the case. According to CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the official spokesperson of the Lagos State Police Command, the suspect has been arrested following a manhunt and has now been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further interrogation.

“Suspect arrested and transferred to the SCID,” Hundeyin confirmed in a statement made on Thursday, May 29, 2025.

The arrest marks the beginning of what many hope will be a transparent investigation and eventual prosecution. Residents of Epe and Nigerians across social media platforms are closely watching to see if justice will truly be served.

Who Was Michael Olaifa?

Michael Olaifa, the 17-year-old victim, has been described by those who knew him as a kind, peaceful, and hardworking young man. Friends and neighbors mourned his death, saying he had dreams of continuing his education and supporting his family.

“He was a gentle boy. He was not the type to fight or cause trouble,” said a family friend who spoke with NaijaRush. “We are still in shock. This could happen to anyone’s child. We want justice for Michael.”

What Is the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC)?

The Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) is a Yoruba nationalist organization that has been active in various communities across Southwest Nigeria. While some members are known for helping with local security, especially in neighborhoods with limited police presence, there have also been numerous reports over the years of abuse of power and excessive force by certain OPC members.

This incident once again raises questions about the accountability and regulation of local vigilante groups operating across Lagos and other parts of Nigeria. Many citizens are calling for stricter oversight to prevent such tragedies from happening again.

The Call for Justice

As of now, the focus has shifted to the Lagos State Government and the justice system. Civil society organizations, youth advocates, and social media users are demanding a fair and swift trial for the suspect and proper compensation or support for Michael Olaifa’s family.

Hashtags like #JusticeForMichaelOlaifa, #EpeProtest, and #EndImpunity have started trending on Twitter and other social media platforms, with Nigerians calling for an end to unchecked violence by both government forces and vigilante groups.

This case has also reignited national discussions about youth safety, unlawful killings, and justice system reforms in Nigeria. Many believe that until institutions start holding perpetrators accountable—regardless of their affiliations—there will be no real security for ordinary citizens.

Conclusion

The tragic killing of 17-year-old Michael Olaifa by a suspected OPC member in Epe is a painful reminder of the dangers of unchecked authority and the fragility of life in some Nigerian communities. The swift arrest of the suspect by the Lagos State Police Command is a step in the right direction, but the real test lies in what happens next.

Will justice truly be served for Michael? Will his death lead to reforms in how vigilante groups are allowed to operate? Or will this just be another forgotten story in Nigeria’s long list of tragedies?

As the investigation continues, NaijaRush will keep you updated on all developments surrounding this case. For now, the message from the streets of Epe is loud and clear:

“We want justice for Michael Olaifa.”