The House of Representatives has demanded the investigation and prosecution of the officers involved in shooting and killing of Ivan Onose Omhonrina.
Leading the debate on the motion at the plenary on Tuesday, Hon. Unyime Idem said on July 13, 2023, a two-years old Omhonrina, who was returning from school tragically lost his life due to a stray bullet fired by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Asaba, Delta State.
He explained that his younger brother, Eromosele Omhonrina was also shot in one of his eyes.
Idem noted that on April 4, 2023, a 17 years old boy, Ibuchim Ofezie, a resident of Agingi Community of Bassa Local Government Area of Jos was killed by some police patrol operatives attached to “C” Division of the Command.
The lawmaker added that on the 28 May 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;
He expressed concern that innocent Nigerians have been either injured or lost their lives due to stray bullets fired by Law Enforcement Officers in the country.
Idem pointed out that if urgent intervention to proffer a lasting solution and end this recurring killings of innocent Nigerians by stray bullets are not put in check, more citizens would continue to sustain injuries and might lead to eventual loss of lives.
He pointed out that reoccurring killings of innocent Nigerians by stray bullets pose significant risks and consequences for individuals, communities, and the nation as a whole.
Idem said it was therefore important that swift, immediate, and decisive action is taken to address the issue, restore the trust, protect human rights, and ensure the safety and well-being of all Nigerians.
Ruling on the motion, the Deputy Speaker, who presided over the plenary said it was important for the security agencies to ensure that their personnel put on body cameras.
He stressed that what was happening in Lagos State at the moment showed the state have embraced that global best practices
The House observed a minute silence for Omhonrina and other victims, who tragically lost their lives.
The House, therefore, called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to take over the investigation and prosecution of the officer(s) involved in the shooting and killing of Omhonrina and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to book.
It urged, “the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and all other law enforcement agencies to provide regular training and sensitization programs for their officers on the appropriate use of firearms, conflict resolution, de-escalation techniques, and respect for human rights.”