JUSTICE FOR IVAN: SENATE RECOMMENDS SENATOR NED NWOKO’S MOTION FOR ₦200 MILLION COMPENSATION TO FAMILY.

Abuja, Nigeria – In a landmark resolution that underscores the Nigerian Senate’s commitment to justice and institutional accountability, the Red Chamber has recommended the payment of ₦200 million as compensation to the family of late Ivan Onose Omhonrina, the two-year-old boy who was tragically killed by a stray bullet during an anti-drug operation conducted by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Okpanam, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State.

The resolution followed a formal petition brought before the Senate by Senator (Prince) Ned Munir Nwoko, who represents Delta North—the constituency where the incident occurred. The petition was submitted on behalf of the bereaved Omhonrina family following the July 13, 2023, operation, which resulted in the fatal shooting of Ivan and left his younger brother, Eromonsele, barely a year old, with an eye injury.

The disturbing circumstances surrounding the incident revealed that NDLEA operatives, in pursuit of suspected drug traffickers, reportedly fired live rounds indiscriminately in a densely populated civilian area. One of the bullets penetrated the premises of a local shop where the children were seated, striking the toddlers and resulting in Ivan’s tragic death.

Moved by the gravity of the incident and the need for accountability, Senator Nwoko took immediate legislative action by presenting a detailed petition to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, chaired by Senator Neda Imasuen. The committee launched a comprehensive investigation involving medical records, eyewitness testimonies, and security reports.

Following extensive deliberations and findings, the committee submitted its report during Senate plenary, recommending that the NDLEA be held liable and that a ₦200 million compensation package be paid to the family. Senator Nwoko, in presenting the report, urged his colleagues to consider the broader implications of unchecked use of force by security agencies and to recognize the weight of a young life lost.

The Senate responded with resounding unanimity. A minute of silence was observed in memory of Ivan, and the Senate adopted the committee’s recommendation without dissent.

In addition to the compensation, the Senate called on the NDLEA to conduct a full internal review of its operational procedures to prevent future occurrences of excessive and deadly force in civilian environments. Notably, it was confirmed that the officer responsible for the fatal shooting is currently undergoing prosecution, as part of a broader effort to ensure justice and institutional responsibility.

Observers have praised the Senate’s resolution as a watershed moment in legislative advocacy for victims of state violence. Legal and civil society analysts have also noted that the outcome sets an important precedent for proactive legislative responses to systemic abuse and negligence.

Senator Ned Nwoko’s leadership in the matter has drawn national attention, with many hailing the Delta North lawmaker as a model of responsive and people-centered representation. His timely intervention, thorough documentation, and unwavering pursuit of justice are widely regarded as the driving force behind the Senate’s firm stance.

“This case is not just about compensation—it is about institutional conscience, rule of law, and the sanctity of human life,” a statement from Senator Nwoko’s media office noted. “No family should have to endure such tragedy without redress, and no agency should operate above the law.”

The resolution has been transmitted to the relevant authorities for implementation, with civil society stakeholders now watching closely to ensure full compliance by the NDLEA.

The Senate’s decisive action, led by Senator Nwoko, offers renewed hope to victims of institutional excesses across the country and reinforces the legislature’s role as a defender of citizens’ rights and justice.