Miners in Possession of Guns, Explosives – Niger Governor

• Governor Bago warns of security threats posed by artisanal miners, revealing that some possess firearms and explosives, worsening local insecurity
• Following a deadly dynamite explosion, Bago urges miners to surrender dangerous weapons to a security committee for safe storage

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has raised concerns over security risks posed by artisanal miners in the state, revealing that some possess firearms and explosives.

Speaking during a visit to Sabon-Pegi community in Mashegu LGA, where a dynamite explosion at a miner’s residence claimed three lives and injured several others, Bago acknowledged the state’s rich gold and lithium deposits, which have led to a surge in artisanal mining.

However, he warned that illegal miners often store dangerous weapons, worsening insecurity in the area.

The governor urged miners to hand over explosives and firearms to a security committee comprising law enforcement agencies, the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), traditional institutions, and other relevant stakeholders for safe storage.

“We urge the people to surrender their explosives and dangerous weapons rather than keeping them at home,” he said.

To support victims of the explosion, he announced a N174 million relief package.

Accompanied by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and Senator Abubakar Sani Bello, Bago visited the explosion site on Wednesday.

Minister Idris conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s concern, describing the tragedy as preventable.

“The president has directed the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to intensify advocacy and enlightenment campaigns, particularly targeting illegal miners, to prevent future incidents,” Idris stated.

Additionally, the president instructed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, NEMA, and other federal agencies to support Niger State in providing relief.

Mashegu LGA Chairman, Umar Jibrin Igade, confirmed that 69 people were affected, with two fatalities. Six injured individuals were treated and discharged.

He reported that 17 houses were destroyed, 35 partially damaged, and nine vehicles affected.

In response, the Mashegu Local Government Council has temporarily banned artisanal mining due to the risks posed by stored explosives.

Igade also urged the chairman of neighboring Magama LGA to enforce a similar ban to enhance security.