The Renevlyn Development Initiative (RDI) has condemned the recent deaths of 13 young miners in Bassa Local Government Area, Plateau State, describing it as a national tragedy that highlights the severity of illegal mining in Nigeria. This incident occurred on Saturday, 9 November, at the boundary between Bassa, Jos South, and Jos North LGAs, where most of the victims were teenagers and young men seeking a livelihood through mining.
The tragedy comes just a week after a mine collapse claimed over 30 lives in a border area between Taraba and Adamawa States. In a statement, RDI stressed that the rising number of mining-related fatalities, particularly in the northern region, reveals the vast and unchecked scale of illegal mining in the country.
RDI’s Executive Director, Philip Jakpor, criticised the lack of effective oversight by relevant agencies, stating:
“We had hoped that the Shiroro mine collapse in Niger State in August, followed by last week’s tragedy in Taraba and Adamawa, would serve as a wake-up call. However, the Plateau State incident makes it clear that Nigeria’s oversight of mining operations requires urgent interrogation and overhaul to prevent further loss of lives.”
Jakpor accused government authorities at all levels of either negligence or complicit silence regarding the widespread illegal mining activities across the country, involving both foreign and local operators. He pointed out that the inauguration of mining marshals by the federal government has failed to curb illegal practices.
“It is time to review the Mining Marshal initiative to ensure it aligns with the realities faced by mining communities. Urgent synergy is needed between the marshals, local communities, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), which is currently lacking,” he said.
RDI called for a national convention on illegal mining to empower local communities to take control of their natural resources and ensure these are utilised for their benefit. Jakpor likened the current situation to the oil curse in the Niger Delta, warning that a similar crisis is unfolding with solid minerals in northern Nigeria.
“These mining deaths are both avoidable and unacceptable. The government must hold illegal mine operators accountable for exploiting our resources, degrading the environment, and endangering lives. Anything less is a ticking time bomb,” Jakpor declared.
He urged immediate action to address the ongoing illegalities and safeguard the lives and resources of Nigerians.