According to eyewitness accounts and the family’s testimony, NDLEA officers opened fire during a raid in the neighbourhood.
The senate has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to, on compassionate grounds, assist the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in paying a ₦200 million compensation to the family of two-year-old Ivan Omhonrina, who was tragically killed during an NDLEA operation in Asaba, Delta State last year.
The call was made on Thursday during plenary, following the submission of a report by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Sen. Neda Imasuen (APC, Edo south). The petition detailed the events surrounding the toddler’s death and the family’s demand for justice and compensation.
NDLEA raid gone awry
The incident occurred on 13 July 2023 in the Okpanam community, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State. According to eyewitness accounts and the family’s testimony, NDLEA officers opened fire during a raid in the neighbourhood.
In the crossfire, two-year-old Ivan, who had just returned from school and was anticipating his graduation ceremony, was fatally struck by a bullet. His older brother sustained injuries and was rushed to the hospital for treatment.
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Senate demands accountability, compensation
In its resolution, the senate condemned the killing in strong terms and called for accountability within the NDLEA. Lawmakers emphasised that such acts of negligence or recklessness by security operatives must not be tolerated or swept under the carpet.
The chamber insisted that the NDLEA take full responsibility for the tragic incident and bear the entire cost of the ₦200 million compensation being demanded by the Omhonrina family. However, in recognition of the agency’s likely financial constraints, the senate appealed to President Tinubu to intervene and support the payment from federal resources as a gesture of state compassion and empathy.
In a solemn moment, the senate observed a minute of silence in honour of the late Ivan.
Senate tasks legislative compliance committee
To ensure the resolution does not go unimplemented, the senate directed its Committee on Legislative Compliance to monitor the enforcement of its decision and report back within two months. This includes confirming the compensation process and any disciplinary or administrative actions taken by the NDLEA in response to the incident.
NDLEA promises investigation and support
Parliament Reports recalls that a statement released after the incident, the NDLEA acknowledged the tragedy and assured the public that an internal investigation was underway. The agency said it was in touch with the family and committed to supporting them while the investigation progressed.
“We will get to the root of this case and take necessary action(s),” the NDLEA’s statement read. However, one year after the incident, the Omhonrina family says they are yet to see meaningful justice, prompting the petition to the senate.
