Tension as Niger mining site collapses, one dead, over 30 trapped

At least 30 people have been trapped within a mining site in Galadima Kogo, Shiroro Local Government Area (LGA), Niger State.

Alhaji Ibrahim Ishaku, the site manager, was among those trapped on Tuesday.

Six additional workers have been retrieved alive, but one has been confirmed deceased.

In a statement confirming the accident in Minna on Tuesday, the Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), Alhaji Abdullahi Baba Arah, said rescue efforts are further hampered by the difficult environment and banditry activities.

He said, “Nsema received a report of mining pit collapse at Galkogo village of Shiroro LGA.

The mine site belongs to a company named “African Minerals and logistics limited.” The cause of the collapsed was as a result of the rainfall impacts that soften the soil”.

He explained that rescuers have to run for their lives as the mine pit kept falling inside.

He said, “Due to the unacceptable nature of that environment as a result of banditry, the information of the incident is very scanty, including rescue operations. Meanwhile, excavators have been deployed for the rescue operations”.

However, a resident who spoke on condition of anonymity said, “one person has been confirmed dead, six people were rescued with severe injuries, while about 30 people including the site manager, Alh Ibrahim Ishaku are still trapped as of yesterday being Monday”.