Reps Call For Prosecution Of NDLEA Officers Who Killed Teenager In Delta

The House of Representatives on Wednesday called on the Nigeria Police Force NPF and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency NDLEA to order a discreet and forensic investigation into the shooting and killing of young Ivan Onose Omhonrina by officers of the agencies on July 13, 2023 in Delta State.
 
This followed the adoption of a motion titled ‘Call for investigation and prosecution of officers involved in the killing of Ivan Onose Omhonrina’ moved by Hon Josiah Unyime Idem (PDP, Akwa-Ibom) at plenary.
 
In his lead debate, Unyime noted that on July 13, 2023, a two year old Ivan Onose Omhonrina, who was returning from school tragically lost his life due to a stray bullet fired by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Asaba, Delta state, and his younger brother, Eromosele Omhonrinawas also shot in one of his eyes.
 
The lawmaker also noted that on April 4, 2023, a 17 years old boy, Ibuchim Ofezie, a resident of Agingi Community of Bassa local government area of Jos was killed by some police patrol operatives attached to “C” Division of the Command, and the incident of 28bMay 2023, in which Bakare Idris Demola was shot dead by Mr. Kabiru Odejimi, a Police officer of the Nigeria Police Force NPF.
 
He expressed worries noting that the recurring killings of innocent Nigerians by stray bullets pose significant risks and consequences for individuals, communities, and the nation as a whole.
 
 
He told the House that it is important that swift, immediate, and decisive action is taken to address this issue, restore the trust, protect human rights, and ensure the safety and wellbeing of all Nigerians.
 
Consequently, the House presided by the Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu unanimously adopted the motion.
 
A one minute silence was also observed for Ivan Onose Omhonrina and other victims, who tragically lost their lives in similar situations.
 
The House urged the Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) to take over the investigation and prosecution of the officer(s) involved in the shooting and killing of Ivan Onose Omhonrina, and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to book.
 
Moreover, the green chamber also urged the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and all other law enforcement agencies to provide regular training and sensitization programs for their officers on the appropriate use of firearms, conflict resolution, de-escalation techniques, and respect for human rights.
 
The lawmakers mandated the Committee on Human Rights (when constituted) to ensure that the family of Onose are adequately compensated for the loss and report back within six weeks.
 
The presiding officer also mandated the Committee on National Security and Intelligence (when constituted) to effectively monitor the activities of law enforcement agencies, including conducting regular evaluations, reviewing incidents, and recommend appropriate actions to prevent similar occurrences and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.