The Nigerian Senate has recommended that the Federal Government pay N200 million in compensation to the family of two-year-old Ivan Onosereba Omhonria, who was killed by a stray bullet during an NDLEA operation in Delta State.
The incident occurred on July 13, 2023, when operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) raided a suspected drug den at Okpanam in Oshimili North Local Government Area. During the raid, a bullet fired by one of the NDLEA officers struck Ivan in the abdomen and injured his younger brother, Eromonsele, in the eye. Ivan died from the gunshot, while Eromonsele survived with serious injuries.
In response to the tragedy, Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North, submitted a petition on behalf of the grieving family. The case was referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, led by Senator Neda Imasuen.
During Thursday’s plenary session, Senator Imasuen presented the committee’s findings. He revealed that the NDLEA admitted to the shooting but claimed it lacked the funds to send Eromonsele abroad for advanced eye treatment.
The committee recommended that NDLEA should cover all medical expenses for Eromonsele, preferably overseas, and that the Federal Government should, with presidential approval, compensate the family with N200 million.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio condemned the incident and put the committee’s recommendations to a voice vote, which was overwhelmingly supported by the lawmakers.
The Senate’s move is seen as a call for accountability in law enforcement operations and a step toward justice for the victims’ family.