The House of Representatives has initiated an investigation into the actions of officers from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) following the alleged killing of a 16-year-old boy, Emmanuel George, during a raid in Okpuje-Ilueha, Edo State. This decision was made after a motion of urgent public importance was presented by Majority Leader Prof. Julius Ihonvbere during a plenary session.
Ihonvbere described the incident, which occurred on October 27, 2025, as a tragic event that has left the community in mourning. He reported that the NDLEA officers were in the area attempting to apprehend a suspect named Abiodun Omage. The operation reportedly involved harassment and intimidation of residents, resulting in George’s death in his family’s home. Additionally, several community members sustained injuries from gunfire and are receiving treatment at Irrua Specialist Hospital.
The Majority Leader expressed concern over the NDLEA’s conduct, emphasizing that their mandate is to combat drug-related issues within the law, rather than resorting to violence and fear tactics against the community. He highlighted the potential erosion of public trust in law enforcement, violations of citizens’ rights, and the risk of escalating tensions between the agency and the community.
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu has directed the Joint Committees on Narcotics, Human Rights, and Public Safety to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident. The House has also called for the suspension of the implicated officers until the inquiry is completed. The committees are expected to report back to the House within a specified timeframe for further legislative action.
