A deadly explosion rocked a mining site in Sabon Pegi, Mashegun Local Government Area, Niger State, on Sunday morning, resulting in the death of one individual and leaving six others injured. The incident occurred as miners resumed work at the site, sending shockwaves through the community.
Authorities suspect that dynamites, allegedly stored in a residential area by a local named Yushau for purported mining activities, caused the blast. The explosion not only took a life but also inflicted harm on the victims, with six others sustaining injuries and being rushed to the general hospital in Kainji for immediate medical attention.
According to a statement from Wasiu Abiodun, the spokesperson for the state police command, the explosion happened at approximately 7:30 AM on January 26th, 2025. The deceased, identified as Fatima Sadauki, was tragically caught in the blast. The explosion also severely impacted the surrounding area, damaging about twelve homes, further amplifying the devastation.
“The Commissioner of Police, Niger State Command, CP Shawulu Ebenezer Danmamman, has ordered an immediate investigation into the incident. An EOD-CBRN unit has been dispatched to the scene for a thorough assessment,” said Abiodun. However, the primary suspect, Yushau, remains at large.
In the wake of the blast, the local community has begun to recover as normalcy is gradually restored. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring the safety and stability of the affected area.
This tragic incident comes just a week after a tanker explosion in Dikko, Niger State, claimed the lives of several people, including a pregnant woman. The series of explosions in the region has raised concerns about safety standards and the handling of dangerous materials, prompting calls for stronger regulations to prevent such disasters in the future.
The community and authorities now face the daunting task of not only dealing with the immediate aftermath of this catastrophe but also ensuring that steps are taken to prevent further loss of life in this mining area.
PIONEER NEWS 