The Nigerian Senate has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to, on compassionate grounds, support the payment of ₦200 million in compensation to the family of two-year-old Ivan Omhonrina, who was tragically killed during an NDLEA operation in Asaba, Delta State, in 2023.

 

The Senate also called for continued full medical support—locally and abroad—for Ivan’s younger sibling, Eromonsele, who sustained a critical eye injury in the same incident. The child is still at risk of losing vision in the affected eye.

 

These resolutions were adopted following the consideration of a report by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct and Public Petitions, presented on Thursday by its Chairman, Senator Neda Imasuen (APC, Edo South).

 

Describing the event as a national tragedy, the Senate observed a minute of silence in memory of the late Ivan and emphasized the need for institutional accountability and reflection.

 

The tragic incident occurred on July 13, 2023, when officers of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) reportedly opened fire during a drug raid at Abacha Junction, in the Okpanam area of Asaba. A stray bullet fatally struck Ivan, who was returning from school, while his brother, Eromonsele, was seriously wounded.

 

Senator Imasuen disclosed that while the NDLEA had paid ₦25 million as initial compensation and remained in touch with the grieving family, the agency lacks the financial capacity to fully support Eromonsele’s advanced medical treatment abroad or provide further compensation.

 

He emphasized that doctors remain uncertain about the chances of the injured child regaining sight in the affected eye.

 

In a passionate appeal for justice, the Senate urged the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, to ensure that the prosecution of the NDLEA officer responsible for the fatal shooting is pursued to its conclusion. Senators were informed that the officer is currently undergoing trial.

 

Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North) lamented the incident, saying:

 

“No amount of money can compensate for the life of a child. A uniform should never be a license to kill innocent people.”

 

 

 

Senate President Godswill Akpabio expressed the chamber’s deep condolences to the bereaved family, stating:

 

“Our hearts go out to the family of the deceased child and the injured sibling. This is a tragic reminder of the need for accountability in law enforcement operations.”

 

 

 

Additionally, the Senate mandated its Committee on Legislative Compliance to monitor the implementation of these resolutions and report back within six weeks.

 

The appeal to the President comes amid growing national calls for improved oversight of law enforcement agencies and more robust frameworks for compensating victims of state-related violence.