IBB Denies Gold Mining Site Ownership Amid Tragedy

Former military president General Ibrahim Babangida clarified that he does not own any gold mining sites associated with the recent deaths of 37 artisan gold miners. This statement followed allegations from an online publication claiming ownership of the site.

Dr. David Adeniran, from Babangida's media office, emphasized that Babangida has never owned, leased, or operated any land for mining in Niger State or anywhere in Nigeria. He condemned the tragic deaths of the miners while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and expressed condolences to the victims' families.

Babangida also refuted claims that he instructed workers to disregard local directives regarding mining operations. He has been living peacefully in Minna since his retirement in 1993 and has no ties to illegal mining activities.

He supports the inquiry initiated by the Niger State government and the Federal Ministry of Interior to investigate the incident and urged residents to remain calm.