N10,000 Palliatives: Stampede Claims 8 Lives at Niger Govt House
Laleye Dipo in Minna Almost three weeks after 37 Illegal miners died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State, another disaster has
In Minna, the capital of Niger State, a tragedy unfolded at the Government House, claiming eight lives and leaving many others injured. This incident occurred nearly three weeks after a similar calamity at the same location, where 37 illegal miners lost their lives. The recent event was triggered by a stampede caused by a surge in people attempting to receive N10,000 palliatives from the state government.
The crowd, which had gathered in anticipation, became unruly and uncontrollable, leading to the chaotic scene. Eyewitnesses reported that some youths were present at the government house with the intention of distancing themselves from a planned protest by a group of youth miners. One government official reportedly threw bundles of money into the air, exacerbating the situation.
Among the victims was a woman and her two daughters, who were trampled upon, according to an eyewitness. Several others sustained injuries and sought medical attention at a nearby Primary Healthcare Centre. As the condition of those transported to the health center worsened, they were transferred to the general hospital, where some of them tragically succumbed to their injuries.
The State Police Public Relations Officer confirmed that the police were unaware of the incident at the time of contact. Both the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor and the state Commissioner for Information were unresponsive to requests for comment on the matter. In 2023, a comparable incident at the Government House resulted in the loss of several lives and injuries to numerous others.
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