August 3, 2025
General NDLEA

Senate Proposes ₦200 Million Compensation for Family of Child Killed by NDLEA Stray Bullet in Delta

Abuja, July 11, 2025 — The Nigerian Senate has recommended a ₦200 million compensation for the family of two-year-old Ivan Onose Omhonrina, who was killed by a stray bullet fired by an operative of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) during a raid in Okpanam, Delta State, in July 2023.

The Senate’s resolution followed the submission of a report by its Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, led by Senator Neda Imasuen. The report was based on a petition filed by Senator Ned Nwoko on behalf of the grieving family.

According to the committee’s findings, NDLEA operatives had stormed the area in a raid targeting drug suspects when a stray bullet struck Ivan, killing him instantly, while his younger brother, Eromonsele, sustained serious eye injuries that could result in permanent blindness.

Though the NDLEA had offered an initial compensation of ₦25 million, the Senate rejected the amount as inadequate, describing the circumstances of the incident as deeply tragic and preventable. The lawmakers instead called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to approve the recommended ₦200 million compensation and ensure that all necessary medical treatments for the surviving child are covered—both locally and abroad if needed.

The Senate also called on the Attorney-General of the Federation to expedite the prosecution of the officer responsible, noting that the NDLEA had confirmed ongoing disciplinary and legal proceedings.

A minute of silence was observed during plenary in honour of the late Ivan, as Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized the need for accountability and justice. The Senate further mandated its Committee on Legislative Compliance to ensure full implementation of the resolution and to report back within two months.