By NDLEA
Senate urges Tinubu to support agency in ₦200m compensation for child’s death
Summary
- Child reportedly killed by stray bullet during NDLEA operation in Delta State
- Senate appeals to President Tinubu to assist agency in fulfilling court-ordered compensation
- Lawmakers call for improved operational standards and accountability in future security raids
Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigerian Senate has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to provide financial support to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to enable it pay ₦200 million in compensation awarded to the family of a toddler killed by a stray bullet during a drug operation in Delta State.
The resolution was made during plenary on Thursday, July 10, 2025, following deliberations on a motion highlighting the tragic incident and the recent court ruling mandating the NDLEA to pay damages.
Lawmakers described the child’s death as a preventable tragedy and urged the federal government to assist the NDLEA in complying with the compensation order, noting the agency’s limited financial capacity. They also stressed the need for stricter rules of engagement and better coordination during raids, particularly in densely populated residential areas.
The case has sparked public concern over the conduct of security agencies during operations, especially regarding civilian safety. Senators warned that without immediate intervention, the inability of the NDLEA to fulfil the court order could undermine public trust in both the agency and the judicial system.
The incident, which occurred in 2024, involved an NDLEA team pursuing suspected drug traffickers when a bullet reportedly struck the child, leading to nationwide outrage and calls for reform.
