Formal and Polished Rewrite:
A considerable number of small-scale gold miners are presently trapped underground in central Nigeria following the collapse of a mining pit. The incident, which occurred subsequent to heavy rainfall in Niger state, took place on Monday, albeit the news of the event was delayed by reason of the country’s general strike. The strike was eventually terminated on Tuesday, allowing for updates on the situation to be disseminated.
Hussaini Ibrahim, a spokesperson for the Niger state emergency service agency, communicated to the BBC that rescue efforts are ongoing, with one fatality confirmed and over 30 individuals believed to still be trapped. The collapse is attributed to the softening of the soil caused by torrential rains.
Efforts to provide assistance to those trapped are being coordinated by four excavators and a team of rescue workers at the site. The Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, has also assured the public that officials from the Mines Inspectorate have been dispatched to investigate the scene at Galadima Kogo. Alake pledged to conduct a meticulous inquiry into the causes of the disaster and to implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
It is noteworthy that Niger state has been a focal point for criminal activity, particularly kidnappings for ransom. Last year, mining operations were prohibited in the Shiroro area, where the collapse occurred, and in nearby regions due to concerns about safety and insecurity. In light of these security risks, additional measures have been taken to safeguard rescue workers from potential abduction.
Regrettably, mining accidents are not uncommon in Nigeria, with various incidents involving illegal miners often going unreported. In a separate occurrence in January, an explosion in Ibadan resulted in two fatalities and 77 injuries. The Oyo state government attributed the blast to explosives stored by illegal miners.
As the rescue operation continues, the mining industry in Nigeria is under scrutiny, and efforts to ensure the safety and security of all individuals engaged in mining activities are imperative. It is hoped that the ongoing rescue efforts will culminate in the safe recovery of those trapped underground.
Further updates on this developing situation will be provided in the due course.
Sources:
BBC News
Nigeria Ministry of Mines and Steel Development