House of Representatives to Probe NDLEA Over Teenager’s Killing in Edo
The House of Representatives has resolved to investigate officers of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) following the reported killing of a 16-year-old boy in Ukpuje-Ilueha, Owan West Local Government Area, Edo State.
The victim, Emmanuel Monday George, was reportedly killed during a joint operation conducted by NDLEA operatives and the Nigerian Army on October 27, 2025.
The operation, aimed at combating drug trafficking, led to a clash in which two other individuals—Godspower Omage (20) and Ajayi Irobia (54)—were injured and taken to hospital. According to reports, one NDLEA officer also sustained injuries during the confrontation.
Representatives expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding the teenager’s death.
Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, representing Owan West/East, emphasized that while NDLEA has a mandate to enforce anti-drug laws, its officers must operate within the bounds of the law and uphold human rights.
“The killing of a minor in a residential community is deeply troubling and requires immediate legislative scrutiny,” he said.
In response, the House tasked its Committees on Narcotics, Human Rights, and Public Safety to carry out a thorough investigation into the incident.
The probe aims to determine the facts surrounding Emmanuel’s death, assess operational conduct by NDLEA officers, and recommend measures to prevent recurrence.
The Edo State Police Command has also intervened, visiting the victim’s family and conducting preliminary investigations, including an autopsy, to ascertain the cause of death.
Authorities have pledged that the investigation will be “impartial and thorough.”
Meanwhile, the Edo State House of Assembly condemned the incident, stating that it resulted in unnecessary loss of life and injuries within the community.
They called for a panel of inquiry to investigate the conduct of the NDLEA and Army personnel during the operation.
The incident has reignited debates on the use of force in anti-drug operations, the protection of civilians, and the accountability of security agencies in Nigeria. Lawmakers, human rights advocates, and community leaders are closely monitoring the developments as the House’s probe gets underway.
