Senate Urges Action After Kogi Coal Mine Landslide Tragedy

On July 14, 2026, a landslide in Alufele, Enjema District, Kogi State, resulted in the deaths of 20 miners, prompting the Senate to call for urgent intervention to address safety and environmental hazards associated with coal mining. The motion was sponsored by Senator Isah Jibrin (APC Kogi East) during a plenary session.

Senator Jibrin emphasized that coal mining is a significant economic activity in the Ankpa Local Government Area, particularly in the Enjema, Okaba, and Ikah communities. He noted that the geological conditions in the area, including unstable materials, increase the risk of subsidence and landslides.

The senator criticized the unsafe mining methods used by artisanal miners, particularly the room-and-pillar technique without proper reinforcement, which heightens the risk of accidents. Additionally, he pointed out that many miners work informally without contracts or insurance, leaving victims and their families without adequate compensation or support after accidents.