By George Ozalla
The Senate Committee on Legal Matters has called for urgent and specialised medical care for two‑year‑old Eromonsele Omorhiakogbe, who sustained a severe eye injury during a National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) operation in Asaba, Delta State, warning that further delays could result in permanent loss of sight.
The appeal followed remarks by Senator Ede Dafinone, Vice‑Chair of the Senate Committee on Legal Matters, as he addressed journalists in Abuja after a closed‑door committee session. Dafinone expressed profound concern that, despite previous directives and promises of support, the child’s treatment has not progressed as expected and his condition continues to deteriorate. He emphasised that time is of the essence to prevent further suffering or irreversible damage to the child’s vision.
Representing the NDLEA at the session was the agency’s Director of Legal Services, who provided lawmakers with an update on the current status of the matter. She outlined steps the agency has taken so far but acknowledged that the needed support needed to meet the specialized treatment of the child is on course. She said the NDLEA is exploring options for advanced care, including possible referrals to competent medical facilities, and appealed for collaborative action from relevant authorities and co-operation from the parents to expedite the treatment process.
Committee members stressed that the family should not bear the burden of meeting the child’s medical needs after a government operation was linked to his injury. They urged relevant ministries and agencies to work closely with the NDLEA to fast‑track arrangements for the child’s treatment and ensure that financial or administrative obstacles do not delay care further.
Lawmakers said full accountability in the handling of the case is critical to preventing future tragedies and restoring public confidence in law enforcement.
Human rights advocates and civil society representatives who attended parts of the session backed the committee’s call, urging swift and decisive action to protect the rights of children and other innocent citizens affected by security operations. They emphasised the need for stronger oversight of enforcement protocols to safeguard lives during such operations.
The matter traces back to July 13, 2023, when operatives of the NDLEA conducted a drug enforcement operation in the Okpanam area of Asaba. During the raid, a stray bullet struck two‑year‑old Ivan Omorhiakogbe, killing him instantly, while his younger brother, Eromonsele, suffered a serious eye injury. The tragic incident sparked widespread public outrage and prompted investigations into the conduct of the agency’s operatives.
In 2025, the Senate adopted a resolution recommending that the NDLEA provide compensation for the family and ensure urgent medical care for Eromonsele, including consideration for treatment abroad. Despite the resolution and initial support measures, progress on the child’s long‑term treatment has been slow, prompting today’s renewed appeal by the Senate Committee on Legal Matters.
