Heartbreaking Loss: Nigerian Police Officer Shoots Himself, Sparks Mental Health Concerns

A police officer, Inspector Ajele Oloyede, attached to the Ogun State Police Command, has reportedly taken his own life.

The incident was said to have occurred during a special duty assignment at Goodwill Ceramic Company in Igbesa, Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area of the state.

The command’s spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, confirmed the development in a statement, adding that an investigation has been launched into the tragic death of Inspector Oloyede, who was attached to 78 PMF, Zamfara State.

“The incident occurred on 14 March 2025 at about 13:20 hours. According to preliminary reports, Tolorunloju Stephen, an officer attached to Force Headquarters Annex, Lagos, who was also on special duty at the company, stated that he had just returned from Ikeja when he entered the security office and found Inspector Oloyede resting his head on a table. After exchanging pleasantries and briefly inquiring about his well-being, Oloyede responded positively.

“Shortly after, Stephen proceeded to the restroom, but moments later, he heard a gunshot. Rushing back, he found Inspector Oloyede lying in a pool of blood.

“With the assistance of private security personnel, the injured officer was immediately rushed to Ota General Hospital, where he was confirmed dead by the attending doctor.

“The firearm used in the incident has been recovered, and the body has been deposited at the hospital for an autopsy,” she said.

According to the police spokesperson, the state Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, has ordered a full-scale investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate incident, including the possibility of foul play or mental health factors.