Survivors Detail Harrowing Conditions in Niger Mining Tragedy

Survivors of a mining tragedy involving the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) reported that 37 suspected illegal miners died in custody due to harsh conditions. Dauda Shehu, one of the survivors, recounted that detainees struggled for breath in an overcrowded cell, with their calls for help allegedly ignored by NSCDC personnel.

The crisis began after community leaders in Lokoto demanded ₦150,000 for each mining pit, which many miners could not afford. Shehu stated that 66 miners were crammed into one cell, and despite complaints about the excessive heat and lack of water, officials did not respond.

The survivors resorted to drinking their urine to survive. Another survivor, Aminu Sale, described the unbearable conditions, including limited ventilation and the loss of many friends and relatives.

The situation escalated, leading to multiple deaths among the detainees.