From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
The Media for Social Change Foundation has raised alarm over the growing number of deaths linked to Nigeria’s mining sector, calling for urgent reforms and accountability to protect human lives.
In a statement signed by its Co-Founders, Boluwaji Obahopo and Opeyemi Owoeye, the organisation described the trend as disturbing, citing the deaths of over 20 miners each in separate pit collapses in Kogi and Taraba states, as well as the death of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.
The foundation stressed that the incidents underscore the need for the country to move beyond the usual focus on illegal mining and enforcement, and instead prioritise the protection and value of human life.
“A miner should not have to choose between risking death inside a mining pit and risking his life in the course of government enforcement,” the statement said.
It expressed particular concern over the Niger State incident, noting that the deaths occurred after the individuals had been taken into custody.
The group called for an independent and transparent investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding their arrest, detention and deaths, adding that forensic examinations and autopsies are already underway.
While acknowledging ongoing investigations, 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 statement further noted that the recurring tragedies in Kogi, Taraba and Niger states highlight systemic failures in protecting vulnerable actors within Nigeria’s mining sector.
It called for a comprehensive review of mining regulations, enforcement operations, and the treatment of individuals arrested in connection with alleged illegal mining.
The 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.
It also 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.
In addition, the group advocated the creation of safe reporting channels for miners and host communities to report hazardous mining activities and unsafe enforcement practices without fear of reprisal.
The organisation concluded by urging the government to take proactive steps to prevent further loss of lives, warning that Nigeria must move from reacting to tragedies to addressing their root causes.
“The wealth beneath our soil cannot be allowed to become a recurring source of graves above it,” the statement added.
