A tragic stampede occurred at the Niger State Government House in Minna on Tuesday night, resulting in the deaths of at least three people and injuring several others. The incident took place when youths gathered at the Government House, reportedly in response to an invitation to shelve a planned protest over the recent deaths of 37 artisanal miners. The injured victims are currently receiving treatment at the Minna General Hospital.
Among those who lost their lives in the stampede were a woman, Dije, and her daughter, Hurairat, both internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Allawa community in Shiroro Local Government Area. Hurairat's husband, Abubakar, a butcher, was killed by bandits in 2023, leading to the family's displacement. Dije and Hurairat had gone to the Government House after hearing that the governor would distribute money there.
According to Mallam Musa Allawa, an IDP, Dije and Hurairat would be buried at 10am on Wednesday. The incident has sparked widespread concern, with many questioning the circumstances surrounding the stampede. Sources close to the governor's office had initially suggested that the youths had gathered to show solidarity with Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago.
However, it appears that the gathering was not just limited to youths, as women also trooped to the Government House after hearing that the governor would distribute N10,000 to those gathered. This influx of people likely contributed to the chaotic situation that led to the stampede.
The Niger State Government has promised to release a statement on the incident in due course. Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Bologi Ibrahim, confirmed this, but did not provide further details. The Niger Police Command has also been contacted for a statement, with Spokesperson SP Wasiu Abiodun promising to verify the information and revert.
The incident has raised questions about crowd control and safety measures at government events. The fact that IDPs, including women and children, were among those affected highlights the need for greater care and consideration in organizing such gatherings. An investigation into the incident is likely to be conducted.
The community is still reeling from the shock of the incident, with many calling for greater accountability and transparency in government dealings. As the state government prepares to release a statement on the incident, residents are waiting anxiously for answers on how such a tragedy could occur.
Key points
- Three people were killed and several others injured in a stampede at the Niger State Government House in Minna.
- The incident occurred when youths and women gathered at the Government House, reportedly in response to an invitation to shelve a planned protest.
- The victims included internally displaced persons (IDPs), highlighting the need for greater care and consideration in organizing government events.
