By John Umeh
The Nigerian Senate has formally recommended a ₦200 million compensation for the grieving family of a two-year-old girl who was tragically killed by a stray bullet allegedly fired by an official of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Delta State. The heartbreaking incident, which sparked national outrage, occurred during a drug raid in the Okpanam area of Asaba, the state capital.
The child, identified as Miss Testimony Ozioma Enweruzo, was said to have been playing outside her family home on July 13, 2023, when NDLEA operatives stormed the area in pursuit of suspected drug traffickers. During the operation, a stray bullet reportedly hit the toddler, resulting in her untimely death.
Senate Intervention and Motion
The Senate’s resolution followed a motion raised by Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North), who condemned the incident as a gross violation of human rights and an unacceptable act of recklessness by security personnel. He described the killing as “a painful reminder of the need for discipline, accountability, and human sensitivity in law enforcement operations.”
Senator Nwoko, backed by his colleagues, demanded that the NDLEA take full responsibility and compensate the child’s family with the sum of ₦200 million to cushion the devastating loss and to serve as a deterrent against future occurrences.
“This innocent child did not deserve to die. No parent should bury a toddler due to the carelessness of those meant to protect lives. This is not just a Delta tragedy—it is a national one,” Nwoko said during the plenary.
Senate Resolution
Following deliberations, the Senate passed the following key resolutions:
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Recommendation of ₦200 million compensation to the victim’s family by the NDLEA.
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An official apology from the agency to the bereaved family and the people of Delta State.
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A thorough investigation into the incident and prosecution of the officer(s) responsible.
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Review of NDLEA’s operational protocols to prevent civilian casualties during future operations.
Public Reaction and Background
The tragedy had drawn widespread condemnation from civil society groups, human rights activists, and citizens on social media, with many calling for justice and an end to the impunity of law enforcement agencies. The NDLEA initially claimed its operatives were met with resistance during the raid and denied responsibility for the child’s death, but mounting evidence and eyewitness reports contradicted that position.
Testimony’s death had also prompted peaceful protests in Asaba last year, with demonstrators carrying placards demanding justice for the toddler.
NDLEA Yet to Respond
As of press time, the NDLEA has not issued an official statement in response to the Senate’s resolution. However, the agency is expected to face mounting pressure from both the public and lawmakers to comply with the recommendations and bring those responsible to book.
A Broader Conversation on Police and Security Reform
This case has once again reignited calls for comprehensive security and police reforms in Nigeria. Many stakeholders are urging the federal government to establish clear rules of engagement and accountability frameworks for all armed agencies operating in civilian zones.
A Life Lost, A Nation Demands Change
The Senate’s bold stance marks a critical step toward justice, but for the family of young Testimony, no amount of compensation can restore the life of their beloved daughter. The public now watches closely, hoping that this tragedy leads to more responsible conduct and a shift toward people-centered security operations.
