By Lucky Uto
The Senate Committee on Legislative Compliance has expressed concern over the delay by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in compensating the family of Mr. Fidelis Omhonria, nearly three years after a tragic operation involving its officers.
Chairman of the committee, Senator Ede Dafinone, voiced dissatisfaction during a review meeting with NDLEA officials, noting that the agency has yet to fully comply with the Senate’s earlier directive to compensate the affected family.
The directive followed an incident in which two-year-old Onosereba Omhonria was killed, while his younger brother, Eromonsele Omhonria, suffered a gunshot injury to the eye during an NDLEA operation.
Senator Dafinone stressed that the delay undermines public trust in government institutions and the enforcement of legislative decisions.
He assured that the committee would continue to push the agency to carry out the Senate’s resolution.
Lawmakers also advised the NDLEA to formally engage the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation to explore the use of confiscated assets in government custody to fund the compensation.
The committee explained that the meeting was held to review progress made so far and to identify practical steps to resolve the matter quickly.
Members of the committee further emphasized the need to prioritise the welfare of citizens during law enforcement operations.
The Senate also called for urgent medical support for the injured child, Eromonsele Omhonria, to help preserve his sight while the family awaits full compensation.
