SENATE URGES PRESIDENT TINUBU TO SUPPORT N200M COMPENSATION FOR FAMILY OF TODDLER KILLED IN NDLEA RAID
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By Aishat Momoh. O.
The Nigerian Senate has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to, on compassionate grounds, assist the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in paying N200 million in compensation to the family of two-year-old Ivan Omhonrina, who was tragically killed during an NDLEA operation in Asaba, Delta State.
The call followed the presentation of a petition on Thursday by Senator Neda Imaseun, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions. The petition stemmed from a July 13, 2023, incident in which NDLEA operatives reportedly opened fire during a drug raid, striking the toddler as he returned home from school.
The Senate, during plenary, condemned the killing in strong terms, describing it as avoidable and deeply regrettable. Lawmakers insisted that the NDLEA must take full responsibility for the incident and urged that the full compensation demanded by the victim’s family be paid.
The chamber also observed a minute of silence in honour of the late Ivan and resolved to refer the matter to its Committee on Legislative Compliance, which has been mandated to monitor the implementation of the resolution and report back within two months.
The Senate stressed the need for greater accountability within Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies to prevent a recurrence of such tragedies.
The family of the deceased had consistently demanded justice, insisting that the NDLEA be held accountable for the death of their son and the injuries sustained by his brother, who was also caught in the gunfire and later hospitalised.
The grieving father of Ivan had earlier revealed that the two-year-old had been looking forward to his school graduation before the incident abruptly ended his life. He appealed to authorities for justice, saying the loss had left the family devastated.
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, had previously directed the NDLEA and the Nigeria Police Force to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. A statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, emphasised the need to bring those responsible to justice.
In response, the NDLEA expressed deep regret and pledged a full investigation into the shooting. The agency also confirmed it was in touch with the family to offer support and reiterated its commitment to taking appropriate action upon the conclusion of its inquiry.
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