The Senate has ordered the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to pay ₦200 million in compensation to the family of a two-year-old, Ivan Omhonrina, who was killed by a stray bullet during an NDLEA operation in Okpanam, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State.
The Senate’s directive was disclosed in a statement issued by the senator representing Delta North, Sen. Ned Nwoko, who spearheaded the petition on behalf of the bereaved family.
Sen. Nwoko described the July 13, 2023 incident as a national tragedy that exposed lapses in the conduct of security operations in civilian areas.
The tragedy occurred on July 13, 2023, when NDLEA operatives stormed a suspected drug hideout in the Okpanam.
During the raid, shots were allegedly fired indiscriminately, with bullets piercing surrounding structures.
Ivan, who was sitting in his mother’s shop at the time, was hit in the abdomen. His younger brother, Eromonsele, aged one, was also struck in the eye.
Both children were rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, where Ivan later died from his injuries.
The incident sparked outrage across the state and prompted the Sen. Nwoko, to take up the matter in the Senate.
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In a petition submitted on behalf of the Omhonrina family, Sen. Nwoko called for accountability and justice.
The petition was reviewed by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, chaired by Senator Neda Imasuen.
The committee conducted a detailed investigation involving testimonies from eyewitnesses, medical reports, and legal consultations.
Following deliberations, the Senate unanimously adopted the committee’s recommendation for the NDLEA to compensate the bereaved family with ₦200 million.
The Senate also observed a minute silence in honour of the late toddler.
