In yet another distressing and heart-rending incident, a collapse of a mining pit in the Adunu community of Paikoro Local Government Area of Niger State has resulted in the tragic loss of three lives. This harrowing event follows closely on the heels of a similar disaster that occurred a mere two weeks ago, where over 30 mining workers were buried following the collapse of a mining pit in Shiroro Local Government Area of the same state.
Preliminary reports have indicated that an unspecified number of miners were trapped in the pit during the collapse. This distressing information came to light on Thursday evening when Abdullahi Baba Arah, the Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), released a statement confirming the occurrence of the mining pit collapse in Bazakwoi.
Yusuf Shuaibu, the state chairman of the Miners Association of Nigeria, also verified the incident, revealing that the pit collapsed at approximately 10 a.m., ensnaring an as yet unconfirmed number of workers. He further disclosed that the association has promptly mobilised a team to conduct an on-the-spot assessment of the tragic scene, with the invaluable support of the government of Niger State.
According to the Director General of NSEMA, the grim incident occurred on the 13th of June, 2024, involving local miners who were reportedly engaged in illegal mining activities within the gold deposit environment. This hazardous undertaking led to the untimely deaths of at least three individuals at the site.
The frequency of these catastrophic events underscores the critical need for stringent safety measures and regulatory oversight in the mining industry. It is imperative to address the issue of illegal mining activities, which not only endanger the lives of the miners but also have adverse environmental repercussions.
The government of Niger State and relevant authorities must continue to take proactive steps to regulate the mining sector, ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols and ethical practices. In addition, there is an urgent necessity to provide comprehensive training and education for miners, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to operate in a safe and responsible manner.
The loss of lives in these mining pit collapses is a stark reminder of the perilous nature of the mining industry. It is a solemn duty for all stakeholders to collaborate in fostering a culture of safety, integrity, and accountability within the sector.
As we mourn the tragic loss of lives, let us also unite in advocating for robust measures to prevent such calamities in the future. Our deepest condolences go out to the families and loved ones of the victims, and we fervently hope that the injured individual makes a swift and full recovery.