NIGERIAN GOVERNOR DENOUNCES NDLEA OFFICIALS’ ALLEGED MURDER OF A 2-YEAR-OLD CHILD

Tunji Wusu –

Ivan Omorhiakogbe, 2, was killed on Saturday, reportedly by National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) agents, according to Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

Festus Ahon, the governor’s chief press secretary, sent a sympathy message to the Asaba family of the late Ivan Omorhiakogbe that included the governor’s response.

The child Omorhiakogbe was reportedly injured by a “stray bullet” during an operation by the NDLEA, Delta Command, at the Okpanam area of the State capital, the governor claimed.

The governor argued that if the officers had followed their standards of engagement, the terrible situation would have been unfortunate and preventable.

In order to identify the perpetrators and prevent a repeat of the incident, he urged the NDLEA authorities and the Delta Police Command to look into the events leading up to the boy’s death and his brother’s injury.

“I express my condolences to the family of Fidelis Omorhiakogbe over the unfortunate death of their two-year-old son, Ivan, and injuries to his younger sibling, Eromonsele, on behalf of the government and people of Delta.

“This situation is heartbreaking, agonizing, and grievous since a child was lost, and his younger sibling was hurt.

He stated, “I condemn this unfortunate incident because, regardless of the provocation, armed security personnel must conduct themselves in accordance with their established rules of engagement.”

“Any action taken outside of these international best practices could be catastrophic, as in this case,” Mr. Oborevwori continued.I therefore urge the NDLEA and police authorities to fully investigate the facts of the regrettable incident and hold anyone responsible accountable.