Tragedy struck in Sabon Pegi, Mashegu Local Government Area of Niger State, as a mining explosion claimed 25 lives and injured several others on Sunday. The explosion, which occurred at a mining site, also caused extensive destruction to residential buildings and shops. Local residents fear more bodies may be trapped under the rubble, with women and children among the missing.
Initial investigations suggest that explosive devices used for mining were improperly stored in a shop by a man identified as Yushau, who has since fled. The Niger Police Command confirmed the explosion was caused by dynamites, with Commissioner CP Shawulu Ebenezer Danmamman ordering an investigation to locate the suspect and prevent further incidents.
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Eyewitnesses reported that the explosion happened just as miners were resuming work, spreading panic among villagers who suspect additional explosives might detonate. Illegal mining activities in the area are believed to have contributed to the incident, with a resident, Ahmed, expressing concerns about the poor handling of explosives.
The injured have been transported to hospitals in New Bussa for treatment, while the military has cordoned off the area to ensure public safety. Authorities are urging calm as investigations continue into the devastating explosion.
