Barely a week after a fuel tanker explosion claimed over 100 lives in Dikko, Gurara Local Government Area, Niger State has witnessed another disaster.
A powerful explosion occurred at a mining site in Sabon Pegi, Mashegu Local Government Area, during the early hours of Sunday, causing widespread devastation.
Initial reports from residents indicated that the blast, believed to have been caused by the mishandling of explosives used for mining, claimed four lives and injured several others. Eyewitnesses recounted how the explosion shook Sabon Pegi and neighboring communities, including New Bussa, forcing frightened residents to flee into the bush.
However, the Niger State Police Command provided a different account. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, the explosion resulted from dynamites stored in a residential building by a miner, identified as Yushau. The incident led to the death of one Fatima Sadauki, while six others sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment at General Hospital, Kainji, New Bussa.
The explosion also left many homeless, destroying 12 houses and causing extensive damage to over 50% of the village, including shops near the mining site. Search-and-rescue operations are ongoing as fears persist that more victims may still be trapped under the rubble.
One of the affected residents, Isah Kwataci, confirmed through a telephone interview that his house was damaged in the blast, though he only sustained minor injuries.
The suspected dealer, Yushau, has reportedly fled the area and remains at large. The Commissioner of Police, CP Shawulu Ebenezer Danmamman, has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD-CBRN) unit has also been deployed to assess the situation.
During a visit to the affected community, the traditional ruler, Muhammad Baiwa, urged calm and warned that traditional institutions would impose strict disciplinary measures against individuals who store explosives in residential areas.
Military personnel have cordoned off the site as authorities work to manage the aftermath of the explosion and prevent further tragedies.