Three die, several injured in Niger Government House stampede

Three lives were lost and numerous others sustained injuries during a stampede at the Niger State Government House in Minna on Tuesday night. The tragic event unfolded as a crowd assembled at the Government House, reportedly in support of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and the youths who sought to demonstrate solidarity. According to reports, the unrest stemmed from concerns over the recent deaths of 37 artisanal miners, who were seeking justice for their tragic loss.

Among the fatalities were Dije, a woman and an internal displaced person (IDP) from Allawa community in Shiroro Local Government Area, and her daughter, Hurairat. Hurairat's husband, Abubakar, had been killed by bandits in 2023, prompting the family's relocation to Minna. Dije had visited her daughter when they learned of a potential distribution of funds at the Government House.

Upon hearing the news, additional individuals, including women, joined the gathering. Government officials had previously stated on social media that the event aimed to offer support to the Governor. However, it was later revealed that the gathering turned chaotic, leading to the stampede and subsequent chaos. The injured victims are currently receiving medical attention at General Hospital, Minna.

Despite the ongoing investigation, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Bologi Ibrahim, assured that an official statement on the incident would be issued soon. The Niger State Police Command spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, pledged to verify the events and provide further updates.