The Nigerian Senate has recommended a compensation of N200 million for the family of a 2-year-old toddler who was killed by a stray bullet from National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) operatives in Delta State.
The incident occurred on July 13, 2023, when NDLEA officers were conducting a raid on an alleged drug joint in Okpanam, Oshimili North Local Government Area. During the operation, a stray bullet hit two-year-old Ivan Onosereba Omhonria in the abdomen, resulting in his death. The same bullet also brushed his younger brother Eronmosele's eye, causing serious injury.
Following the tragic incident, Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North, submitted a petition on behalf of the bereaved family in July 2023. The petition was subsequently forwarded to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions for investigation, headed by Senator Neda Imasuen.
During Thursday's plenary session, Senator Imasuen presented the committee's findings, revealing that all parties involved had been invited for questioning. According to the report, the NDLEA claimed it lacked the financial capacity to sponsor Eronmosele's eye treatment abroad.
The committee's recommendations, which received overwhelming support from lawmakers, include:
The NDLEA should take full financial responsibility for Eronmosele's medical treatment, preferably abroad, to restore his sight
The federal government, through presidential approval, should compensate the family with N200 million
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who condemned the incident, put the recommendations to a voice vote, which received unanimous approval from the senators present.
The tragic incident highlights ongoing concerns about operational protocols and accountability within law enforcement agencies during raids and other operations in civilian areas.
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