Justice For Ivan: Senate Recommends ₦200m Compensation Over Tragic NDLEA Shooting In Delta
The Nigerian Senate has moved to secure justice for the family of two-year-old Ivan Onose Omhonrina, who was tragically killed by a stray bullet allegedly fired by NDLEA operatives during a drug raid in Delta State.
In a resolution passed on Thursday, the Senate recommended that the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) pay ₦200 million in compensation to the bereaved family.
The development followed a petition presented by Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, who represents Delta North. Senator Nwoko has been vocal in seeking accountability for the incident, which occurred on 13 July 2023 in Okpanam, Oshimili North LGA.
Little Ivan was struck in the abdomen while sitting in a shop owned by his mother, as bullets reportedly pierced through the structure during the operation. His younger brother, Eromonsele, was also injured in the eye.
While both children were rushed to the Federal Medical Centre for urgent care, Ivan sadly did not survive.
The Senate’s Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, chaired by Senator Neda Imasuen, conducted a thorough investigation after the petition was formally brought before the upper chamber.
Their report led to Thursday’s resolution, with senators observing a solemn minute of silence in Ivan’s memory before adopting the compensation recommendation.
The Senate’s endorsement of ₦200 million for the family marks a significant step in addressing the grief and trauma caused by the tragic incident, and highlights the need for greater accountability during law enforcement operations.
