Senate Seeks N200m Compensation For Family Of Toddler killed During NDLEA Raid

The Nigerian Senate has called on President Bola Tinubu to approve a N200 million compensation for the family of a toddler killed and another injured during a botched anti-drug operation by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Delta State.

The tragic incident occurred on July 13, 2023, during a raid by NDLEA operatives at Abacha Junction, a known drug hotspot in Okpanam, near Asaba. In the course of the raid, a stray bullet hit two-year-old Onosereba Omhonria, killing him on the spot, while his younger brother, Eromonsele, sustained a serious eye injury. Eromonsele’s condition remains critical, with lingering uncertainty over his ability to regain full vision.

The Senate’s demand followed the adoption of a report by its Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct and Public Petitions. According to the committee, while NDLEA has engaged with the children’s father and offered a N25 million settlement, the agency lacks the resources to fund critical medical treatment abroad for the injured boy.

Lawmakers described the incident as deeply traumatic for the Omhonria family and said the proposed N200 million compensation would serve as a humanitarian response rather than just financial redress. The Senate also ordered that NDLEA continue covering the boy’s treatment costs, including sending him to a reputable foreign hospital for further care. A minute of silence was observed for the deceased toddler during the plenary.

The Senate declined a recommendation to direct the Attorney General of the Federation to prosecute the officer responsible, citing that he is already facing trial.

During the debate, Senator Adams Oshiomhole expressed deep sorrow over the killing, noting that no amount of money can replace the life lost. He argued for accountability, stressing that no one outside the top officeholders in the country has immunity from the law. He added that wearing a uniform should not grant anyone the freedom to take a child’s life without consequence.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the situation as heartbreaking and urged his colleagues to consider personal gestures of support to the family. He tasked the Committee on Legislative Compliance to follow up with relevant authorities to ensure the Senate’s directives are fully implemented and to report progress within six weeks.

The Senate’s firm stance on the case reflected a broader call for accountability in government institutions and justice for ordinary Nigerians affected by lapses in duty.