An explosion at a mining site in Sabon Pegi, Mashegu Local Government Area of Niger State, has claimed 25 lives, according to updated reports. This contrasts with earlier reports that placed the death toll at four.
The blast, which occurred on Sunday morning as miners were resuming work, also left several individuals injured, with victims currently receiving treatment at hospitals in New Bussa. Many residents, including women and children, remain missing as local search efforts continue amid fears that more victims may be buried under the rubble.
The explosion, which destroyed residential buildings and shops, has been linked to improperly stored dynamites used for mining activities. Police sources revealed that a man identified as Yushau, based in New Bussa, allegedly stored the explosives in his uncle’s house, doubling as a shop. The dynamites reportedly detonated, leading to the tragedy.
Yushau is currently on the run, and security operatives are working to locate him. The military has cordoned off the area to prevent further casualties.
The Niger Police Command confirmed the cause of the explosion through its spokesperson, Superintendent Wasiu Abiodun. “The explosion of dynamites occurred in densely populated residential buildings. One Fatima Sadauki died on the spot, while six others sustained injuries and are being treated at the General Hospital in Kainji, New Bussa. Approximately 12 houses were destroyed in the blast,” the statement read.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Shawulu Ebenezer Danmamman, has ordered a full investigation into the incident. Meanwhile, Ahmed, a local resident, described the fear gripping the community: “Villagers are scared to go near the site because we suspect more explosives could detonate.”
Illegal mining activities have long been a challenge in the region, and the incident highlights the dangers posed by improper handling of explosive materials. Local authorities are now under pressure to tighten regulations and enforce stricter oversight of mining operations to avert future disasters.
This tragedy comes barely a week after a fuel tanker explosion along the Dikko-Maje-Minna road, which also claimed lives, compounding the state’s recent spate of deadly incidents.