The House of Representatives has directed the Inspector-General of Police, IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, to immediately take over investigation and prosecution of the officers involved in the shooting and killing of Ivan Onose Omhonrina.
The Green Chamber urged the IGP to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to book.
Ivan Onose Omhonrina, a two-year-old child, tragically lost his life when a stray bullet, fired by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) hit him in Asaba, Delta State.
The bullet also hit his younger brother Eromosele Omhonrina in one of his eyes, and he had to undergo surgery.
The directive follows a motion of urgent public importance brought before the house by the member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, Hon. Unyime Idem on an urgent call for the Inspector General of Police to take over the investigation and prosecution of the officers involved in the shooting and killing of Ivan Onose Omhonrina, and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to book.
The house also urged the NDLEA and all other law enforcement agencies to provide regular training and sensitization programs for their officers, focusing on the appropriate use of firearms, conflict resolution, de-escalation techniques, and respect for human rights.
According to the house, this will help enhance their professionalism and minimize the risk of civilian casualties.
The Green Chamber also mandated the Committee on Human Rights (when constituted) to oversee and ensure that the family of Onose are adequately compensated for their loss and report back to the house within six weeks.
Idem had also drawn the house attention to the killing of a 17-year-old Ibuchim Ofezie, a resident of Agingi Community of Bassa Local Government Area of Jos, as well as the killing of Bakare Idris Demola, a generator technician, in Oregun, Ikeja area, Lagos State, by officers of the Nigerian Police Force.
The Ukanafun-born lawmaker noted with concern that numerous innocent Nigerians have been injured or lost their lives due to stray bullets fired by Law Enforcement Officers in the country, noting that the recurring killings pose significant risks and consequences for individuals, communities, and the nation as a whole.
Hon. Unyime Idem therefore advocated that a swift, immediate, and decisive action be taken to address this issue, in order to restore trust, protect human rights, and ensure the safety and well-being of all Nigerians.
The House observed a minute silence for Ivan Onose Omhonrina and other victims, who have tragically lost their lives.