A tragic explosion at a mining site in Sabon Pegi, Mashegu Local Government Area of Niger State, in the early hours of Sunday, has left one person dead and six others injured, according to reports from the Niger State Police Command.
The deceased has been identified as Fatima Sadauki, while the injured victims are receiving medical treatment at General Hospital Kainji, New Bussa.
The explosion was reportedly triggered by dynamites improperly stored in a residential building by a miner identified as Yushau, who is now at large. The blast caused significant destruction, leaving 12 houses in ruins and displacing many families. Residents fear there may be additional casualties trapped under the rubble, as search-and-rescue operations are ongoing.
Eyewitness accounts described the explosion as powerful enough to send shockwaves through neighbouring areas, including New Bussa, prompting terrified residents to flee into nearby bushes for safety. Some villagers reported that over 50% of the community’s structures, including shops near the mining site, were reduced to rubble.
In response, the Niger State Police Commissioner, CP Shawulu Ebenezer Danmamman, has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD-CBRN) unit has been deployed to assess the damage and secure the area. Military personnel have cordoned off the affected zone to ensure public safety.
The traditional ruler of the district, Muhammad Baiwa, visited the site and called for calm, urging the community to cooperate with authorities. He also warned against the illegal storage of explosive materials in residential areas, stating that traditional institutions would implement disciplinary measures to prevent future occurrences.
Authorities have intensified efforts to locate and apprehend Yushau, the alleged dealer of the dynamites, while villagers and emergency responders continue working tirelessly to uncover potential survivors or victims beneath the debris.