From Victor Osula, Abuja
The Nigerian Senate has recommended a N200 million compensation package for the family of a two-year-old child, Onosereba Omhonria, who was killed by a stray bullet during a National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) raid in Delta State.
The resolution followed the adoption of a report presented by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions during plenary on Thursday.
The tragic incident occurred on July 13, 2023, when NDLEA operatives stormed a notorious drug hotspot known as “Abacha Junction” in the Okpanam area of Asaba, Oshimili North Local Government Area.
In the process, a stray bullet hit Onosereba, killing him on the spot, and severely injuring his younger brother, Eromonsele, in the eye.
Presenting the report, committee chairman, Senator Neda Imasuen, revealed that while the NDLEA had shown support to the family — including an initial offer of N25 million compensation — the gravity of the trauma suffered required greater intervention. He said Eromonsele remains in critical condition, with an uncertain prognosis regarding his vision.
“Given the seriousness of the trauma suffered by the Omhonria family, the Senate urges President Bola Tinubu to assist the NDLEA with N200 million as compensation on compassionate grounds,” the report stated.
The Senate also mandated the NDLEA to continue footing the medical bills of Eromonsele and ensure he is flown abroad for specialist care. A minute silence was observed in memory of the deceased toddler.
The Red Chamber, however, rejected a recommendation that the Attorney General of the Federation prosecute the NDLEA officer responsible for the shooting after it was confirmed that the officer is currently undergoing trial.
In his contribution, Senator Adams Oshiomhole condemned the killing, stating that “no amount of money can compensate for the death of a child.”
He called for accountability, adding, “Other than the President, Vice President, Governors, and their Deputies, no other citizen enjoys immunity. A uniform is not a licence to kill and return home to sleep with your own children.”
Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the incident as “pathetic,” urging colleagues to extend private support to the affected family.
He also mandated the Committee on Legislative Compliance to follow up on the Senate’s resolutions and report back within six weeks.
