A devastating pit collapse in central Nigeria has left dozens of gold miners trapped underground, with rescue efforts still ongoing. The incident occurred on Monday, June 3, 2024, following heavy rainfall in Niger state, although news was slow to emerge due to the country’s general strike, which was called off on Tuesday.
According to Niger state emergency service agency spokesman Hussaini Ibrahim, the collapse has resulted in at least one confirmed death, with over 30 people still believed to be trapped. Six persons were rescued and rushed to the hospital, while four excavators and rescue workers are on site trying to help those trapped.
“As of this morning [Wednesday] we believe over 30 people are still trapped, we can’t give you exact figures because even those on site didn’t know,” said Mr Ibrahim. “One person has been confirmed dead and six persons were rescued and rushed to the hospital.”
The pit collapse is attributed to the torrential rains that softened the soil, making it difficult for rescue efforts. Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Dele Alake has assured that officials of the Mines Inspectorate have been sent to the mining site in Galadima Kogo to investigate the causes of the disaster and ensure the safety of all Nigerians.
This incident highlights the frequent mining accidents in Nigeria, many of which involve illegal miners and go unreported. In January, a deadly blast in Ibadan killed two people and injured 77 others, reportedly caused by explosives stored by illegal miners. The rescue efforts continue, with the nation holding its breath for the safe recovery of the trapped miners.
