The family of two-year-old Eromonsele Omhonria, who was tragically shot in the eye by National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) officers in Delta State, has spoken out against the agency’s abandonment.
The toddler’s elder brother, Ivan, lost his life in the same incident, which occurred during a raid on July 13, 2024.
At a recent House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions hearing, the family revealed that Eromonsele has yet to receive medical treatment since the incident. The family’s lawyer, Mathew Edaghese, painted a devastating picture: “Whenever the little boy cries, blood oozes from his eye and mixes with his tears.” The family has been referred to a specialist hospital in the United States, but efforts to secure a visa have been unsuccessful.
The family is seeking N2 billion in compensation from the NDLEA. While Chairman of the Committee Mike Etaba acknowledged the need for immediate treatment, he deemed the compensation demand unrealistic. Etaba urged the NDLEA to settle the matter amicably, expressing disappointment that Chairman Buba Marwa did not attend the hearing. A meeting has been scheduled for October 24 to resolve the issue.
Theresa Asuquo, Director of Prosecution and Legal Services, represented Marwa at the hearing. She claimed the matter was already before the court and should not be entertained. However, the committee cautioned against misleading information, clarifying that the court case involved the erring officers, not the family’s petition.
The Civil Rights Council of Nigeria has strongly condemned the tragic killing, calling for accountability. As the family continues to seek justice, the nation watches with bated breath, hoping for a resolution that brings healing and closure.
