The Birnin Gwari Emirate Progressives Union has called for a thorough and transparent investigation into a deadly clash involving suspected illegal miners in Randagi community, Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State, where many people were reportedly killed.
The call followed reports by BBC Hausa that scores of people were feared dead in the violence.
However, neither the Kaduna State Government nor security agencies had officially confirmed the casualty figure as of the time of filing this report.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Chairman of BEPU, Dr Isah Muhammad, described the incident as tragic and extended condolences to the people of Randagi and families of those who reportedly lost their lives.
He also prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured in the clash.
The statement read, “BEPU expresses deep concern over the unfortunate incident reported to have occurred in Randagi community, Birnin Gwari Local Government Area, involving individuals allegedly engaged in illegal mining activities.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the people of Randagi, particularly the families of those who reportedly lost their lives. We also pray for the quick recovery of those who sustained injuries.
“BEPU calls on the relevant authorities to carry out a prompt, thorough and transparent investigation into the incident. The circumstances surrounding this tragedy must be fully established, and anyone found responsible should be dealt with in accordance with the law.”
The union also urged the Federal Government, Kaduna State Government and mining regulatory agencies to strengthen oversight of mining activities in Birnin Gwari, insisting that mining operations must be carried out in line with extant laws, environmental regulations and safety standards.
According to the group, residents have repeatedly complained about the destruction of farmlands, damage to public infrastructure and the reported use of hazardous chemicals close to streams and other water sources during mineral processing.
It warned that such practices could have far-reaching consequences for public health, agriculture and the environment if not urgently addressed.
BEPU further lamented that despite the vast mineral deposits in Birnin Gwari, host communities had continued to derive little benefit from mining activities.
It, therefore, urged the relevant authorities to ensure that mining operations translate into tangible development through improved roads, healthcare facilities, schools, potable water and employment opportunities for residents.
The union appealed to the people of Randagi and the wider Birnin Gwari Emirate to remain calm, avoid reprisals and cooperate fully with security agencies investigating the incident.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to working with government, traditional rulers, security agencies and other stakeholders to promote peace, responsible mining and sustainable development across the emirate.
Birnin Gwari, located in the western part of Kaduna State, is one of Nigeria’s most mineral-rich areas, with commercially viable deposits of gold and other solid minerals. In recent years, the area has witnessed a surge in both licensed and illegal mining activities, attracting artisanal miners and investors from different parts of the country.
The local government has also remained one of the worst-hit areas by banditry and other violent crimes, with armed groups often exploiting remote mining locations to finance their activities and exert control over mining sites. Security experts have repeatedly warned that the proliferation of illegal mining has fuelled violent rivalries among miners and criminal groups competing for access to lucrative mineral deposits.
Community leaders have consistently accused illegal miners of degrading the environment through indiscriminate excavation, destroying farmlands, polluting water sources with chemicals used in mineral processing and depriving host communities of the economic benefits accruing from their natural resources.
The latest clash has renewed concerns over the urgent need for stricter regulation of mining activities, enhanced security around mining communities and greater enforcement of existing mining laws to prevent further loss of lives and protect host communities.