How police helped 15-year-old Olumo Rock photographer return to school

A 15-year-old boy, Ridwan Bolaji, who had been working as a roadside photographer at Olumo Rock in Abeokuta, Ogun State, is set to resume his education thanks to an intervention by the Ogun State Police Command and the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC).

Ridwan had been unable to attend secondary school for over three years after finishing his primary education in July 2023. Financial constraints prevented his family from affording his schooling. He reportedly attempted to learn barbering but could not complete the training, eventually turning to photography at Olumo Rock to support himself.

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Moved by the young boy’s circumstances and impressed by his determination to survive, DSP Babaseyi pledged to personally take responsibility for his schooling and ensure that Ridwan returns to the classroom.

The situation changed during the 2026 Annual Week of the PCRC in Ogun State, where Ridwan volunteered to take photographs. His confidence and skill with the camera caught the attention of the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, who was representing the Commissioner of Police. Upon learning of Ridwan's circumstances, DSP Babaseyi pledged to personally support his return to the classroom.

This personal commitment quickly evolved into a collective effort, attracting support from the PCRC leadership and other stakeholders. Ridwan's mother expressed profound gratitude for the assistance, which offers her son a vital opportunity to continue his education. The National Safe School Club Project also contributed N200,000 towards Ridwan's schooling.

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Our immediate priority is to see the child recover out of respect for the sanctity of human life.