The House of Representatives has called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to assume responsibility for the investigation and prosecution of the officer(s) responsible for the shooting and subsequent death of Ivan Onose Obhonria. The House emphasizes the need to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future.
In a bid to promote accountability and professionalism among law enforcement agencies, the House has also urged the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and all other relevant organizations to conduct regular training and sensitization programs. These programs would focus on appropriate firearms use, conflict resolution, de-escalation techniques, and the respect for human rights.
In addition, the House has mandated its Committee on Human Rights and National Security and Intelligence (once constituted) to ensure that adequate compensation is provided to the Onose family for their loss. The committee has been given a deadline of six weeks to report back to the House.
To enhance oversight and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future, the House has further mandated its Committee on National Security and Intelligence (once constituted) to effectively monitor the activities of law enforcement agencies. This includes conducting regular evaluations, reviewing incidents, and recommending appropriate actions. The committee has been given a deadline of four weeks to report back to the House for further legislative action.
These resolutions were reached following the adoption of a motion titled “Call for Investigation and Prosecution of the Officers Involved in Shooting and Killing of Ivan Onose Omhonrina,” moved by Hon. Unyime Idem.
Hon. Idam, while presenting the motion, highlighted the tragic incident that occurred on July 13, 2023. Ivan Onose Omhonrina, a two-year-old returning from school, lost his life due to a stray bullet fired by an officer from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Asaba, Delta State. Ivan’s younger brother, Eromosele Omhonrina, was also injured, with one of his eyes affected.
Furthermore, Hon. Idam cited similar incidents that have occurred recently, including the killing of Ibuchim Ofezie, a 17-year-old resident of Agingi Community in Bassa Local Government Area of Jos, by police patrol operatives attached to the “C” Division of the Command on April 4, 2023. Additionally, on May 28, 2023, Bakare Idris Demola was shot dead by Mr. Kabiru Odejimi, a police officer of the Nigerian Police Force in Oregun, Ikeja area, Lagos State.
Expressing deep concern, Hon. Idam stated that innocent Nigerians have been either injured or lost their lives due to stray bullets fired by law enforcement officers across the country. He warned that if immediate and effective interventions are not put in place to address this issue, more citizens will continue to suffer injuries and potentially lose their lives.
Highlighting the significant risks and consequences posed by recurring incidents of innocent Nigerians falling victim to stray bullets, Hon. Idam emphasized the urgency of taking swift and decisive action. Restoring trust, protecting human rights, and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all Nigerians are crucial objectives that must be achieved.
In honor of Ivan Onose Omhonrina and other victims who tragically lost their lives in such incidents, the House observed a minute of silence during the session.
Stay tuned to talkGlitz.media for further updates on this matter as investigations unfold and actions are taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
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