The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, on Monday reacted to the tragic explosion in Sabon Pegi, Mashegu Local Government Area of Niger State.
He said “This incident was entirely avoidable.”
The incident which occurred early Sunday morning, claimed three lives, left dozens injured, and destroyed 40 homes, leaving the community in ruins.
In a statement released by his media aide, Segun Tomori, Alake expressed his deep condolences to the victims and their families, describing the tragedy as the result of negligence and illegal practices. Preliminary investigations revealed that the explosion was caused by the unauthorized stockpiling of explosives by a resident, Yushua Maikampala.
“This is a painful reminder of the dangers of illegal handling and storage of explosives. Innocent lives have been lost, homes have been destroyed, and families displaced—all because of one person’s reckless actions,” Alake said.
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The explosion, reportedly triggered by an electrical spark, ripped through the residential area around 7 a.m. Witnesses recounted scenes of panic as the fire consumed buildings and sent debris flying. Maikampala, the suspected culprit, is believed to have been purchasing and stockpiling explosives and accessories in a house in Sabon Pegi.
In response to the tragedy, the minister dispatched a team from the Federal Mines Office to the site for an immediate on-the-ground assessment. Alake also directed the Mines Inspectorate Department to carry out a forensic analysis of soil samples from the blast site to trace the source of the explosives.
“We are determined to uncover the origin of these materials and ensure accountability. Security agencies have been mobilized to apprehend the suspect, who will face the full force of the law,” the minister vowed.
Alake emphasized the need for strict compliance with environmental and safety standards in the mining sector, warning operators against cutting corners or flouting regulations.
“This tragedy underscores the critical need for proper oversight and adherence to safety protocols. The government will not tolerate actions that endanger lives and property,” he said.
