The Senate has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to support the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in paying a ₦200 million compensation to the family of two-year-old Ivan Omhonrina, who was killed during a botched raid by the agency in Asaba, Delta State.
The plea followed a petition presented on Thursday by Senator Neda Imaseun, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics.
The incident, which occurred on 13 July 2023, drew widespread outrage after NDLEA operatives reportedly opened fire during a raid, fatally hitting Ivan as he returned home from school. His older brother was also injured in the crossfire.
During plenary, the Senate condemned the incident and called for accountability, urging the NDLEA to accept full responsibility and pay the compensation demanded by the grieving family.
A minute of silence was observed in honour of the late toddler.
The Senate also tasked its Committee on Legislative Compliance to monitor implementation of the resolution and report back within two months.
Ivan’s father, while recounting the incident, said the child had been excited about his upcoming graduation before the tragedy ended his young life. He demanded justice for his family.
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, in a statement through his Chief Press Secretary Festus Ahon, called on the NDLEA and police to investigate the killing and ensure that those responsible are held to account.
The NDLEA, in a statement, expressed regret over the incident and pledged to conclude investigations and take necessary disciplinary action.
“We’re in touch with the family to provide assistance while concluding our internal investigations. We assure the public that the case will be fully addressed,” the agency stated.
