The Senate has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to support the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in compensating the family of a 2-year-old boy, Ivan Omhonrina, who was tragically killed during an agency operation in Asaba, tge Delta State capital.
The appeal followed a petition presented by Senator Neda Imasuen, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, during Tuesday’s plenary session.
According to reports, the heartbreaking incident occurred on July 13, 2023, when NDLEA operatives allegedly opened fire during a drug raid. In the chaos, young Ivan, who was returning from school, was struck by a stray bullet, leading to his untimely death. The incident sparked nationwide outrage, with human rights groups and the public calling for accountability and justice.
In response, the Senate unanimously condemned the killing and emphasized the need for the NDLEA to take full responsibility. Lawmakers called for a N200 million compensation to be paid to the grieving family, urging President Tinubu to intervene in facilitating the process.
As a tribute to the deceased, the upper chamber observed a minute of silence in honor of Ivan Omhonrina.
To ensure accountability, the Senate directed its Committee on Legislative Compliance to follow up on the implementation of the resolution and submit a progress report within two months.
This latest development underscores growing concerns about civilian casualties during security operations and renewed calls for reform and oversight of Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies.
