The Nigerian Senate has advised that N200 million should be given as compensation to the family of a 2-year-old boy who was mistakenly killed by officers of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Delta State.

The sad event happened on July 13, 2023, when NDLEA officials were carrying out a raid at a known drug area in Delta State. During the operation, a bullet from an NDLEA officer hit a young boy named Ivan Onosereba Omhonria and his younger brother, Eronmosele, at their mother’s shop.

Ivan was hit in the stomach by a stray bullet and sadly passed away. His younger brother, Eronmosele, also got injured in the eye.

Following the incident, Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents Delta North, brought the matter to the Senate in July 2023 on behalf of the grieving family.

The Senate then handed the case to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, led by Senator Neda Imasuen, to investigate.

While sharing the outcome of the investigation, Senator Imasuen said that all the people involved were interviewed. He also mentioned that the NDLEA said they could not afford to send Eronmosele abroad for proper eye treatment.

The senator went on to say that NDLEA should cover all medical costs for Eronmosele’s treatment, especially if it has to be done overseas. He also recommended that the federal government approve a compensation of N200 million for the family.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio strongly criticized the tragic event and presented the recommendations during the Senate meeting. The senators agreed to the suggestions with a loud and clear voice vote.