The Media for Social Change Foundation has expressed concern over the increasing number of deaths linked to Nigeria's mining sector, calling for urgent reforms to protect lives. In a statement, the organisation described the trend as disturbing, citing multiple incidents of fatalities in Kogi, Taraba, and Niger states. The foundation's Co-Founders, Boluwaji Obahopo and Opeyemi Owoeye, signed the statement, highlighting the need for accountability and protection of human life in the mining sector.
The foundation noted that over 20 miners died in separate pit collapses in Kogi and Taraba states, while 37 suspected illegal miners died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State. These incidents, the organisation stressed, underscore the need for Nigeria to prioritise the protection and value of human life in the mining sector. The foundation also expressed concern over the Niger State incident, where deaths occurred after individuals were taken into custody.
The Media for Social Change Foundation called for an independent and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the arrest, detention, and deaths of the suspected miners in Niger State. Forensic examinations and autopsies are already underway. The organisation insisted that Nigerians deserve more than inquiries that fade without results, stressing that every death must have an answer and that accountability must follow where wrongdoing is established.
The foundation further noted that the recurring tragedies in Kogi, Taraba, and Niger states highlight systemic failures in protecting vulnerable actors within Nigeria's mining sector. To address this, the organisation called for a comprehensive review of mining regulations, enforcement operations, and the treatment of individuals arrested in connection with alleged illegal mining.
The Media for Social Change Foundation warned that efforts to curb illegal mining must not become a pretext for abuse, insisting that no mineral resource is worth the loss of human life. The organisation urged authorities to ensure that investigations into the recent incidents are transparent, with findings made public and responsibility assigned where negligence or violations are proven.
The foundation also advocated for the creation of safe reporting channels for miners and host communities to report hazardous mining activities and unsafe enforcement practices without fear of reprisal. This, the organisation believes, will help prevent further loss of lives. The government is urged to take proactive steps to prevent further tragedies, rather than simply reacting to them.
The Media for Social Change Foundation concluded by warning that Nigeria must move from reacting to tragedies to addressing their root causes. The organisation stated that the wealth beneath Nigeria's soil cannot be allowed to become a recurring source of graves above it, emphasising the need for urgent reforms and accountability in the mining sector.
Key points
- The Media for Social Change Foundation calls for urgent reforms to protect lives in Nigeria's mining sector.
- The organisation cites multiple incidents of fatalities in Kogi, Taraba, and Niger states, highlighting the need for accountability.
- The foundation advocates for the creation of safe reporting channels for miners and host communities to report hazardous mining activities.
