A devastating mine collapse in Niger State, Nigeria has resulted in the deaths of three people and the injury of one, just over a fortnight after a similar incident at the Shiroro mine trapped over 50 miners. The latest tragedy occurred at an illegal gold mining site in Bazakwoi, Adunu Community, Paikoro Local Government Area.
The accident has raised concerns about the effectiveness of rescue efforts and the lack of support from multinational rescue firms. The Director-General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), Abdullahi Baba-Arah, confirmed that no one was trapped and therefore, no rescue operation was necessary.
However, the Ministry of Mineral Resources is still grappling with the rescue efforts at the Shiroro mine, where over 50 miners have been trapped since the collapse. The Ministry has expressed frustration at the lack of assistance from multinational rescue firms.
A committee set up by the Ministry to reassess the African Minerals and Logistics Limited, owners of the Shiroro mine, reported that efforts were still ongoing to rescue the trapped miners. The committee noted that no multinational rescue teams were present at the site and that the company management was left to manage the situation with the support of the Niger State Ministry of Mineral Resources.
The latest incident has sparked outrage among Nigerians, who are calling for urgent action to address the crisis. The tragedy has also raised questions about the safety and working conditions for miners in Nigeria.
The families of the trapped miners have reportedly conducted prayers for their loved ones, believing they may have died. A government official revealed that some families had held a seven-day Fidau prayer on Monday for their relatives.
