Niger Government House Stampede: Three Reportedly Dead, Six Critical

ValidViewNetwork gathered that the reported deaths occurred against the background of rising tension in Minna following the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who had been in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.

The deaths had generated anger and concern in Niger State. The suspected miners were reportedly arrested during operations against illegal mining.

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago had previously confirmed the deaths and called for investigations, including forensic examinations and autopsies to establish the cause.

The development prompted public discussion and tension in the state.

Against that background, youths reportedly gathered at the Niger State Government House.

According to the report supplied to ValidViewNetwork, Governor Bago had invited youths to the Government House as another protest was expected in Minna.

The situation reportedly became chaotic when an alleged cash-distribution exercise began. A source stated that the gate of the Government House was opened, allowing a large crowd to gather.

The crowd reportedly surged, resulting in the stampede. At least three people were reportedly killed, while six others were critically injured.

Security personnel reportedly fired shots into the air in an attempt to control the crowd. The incident is still developing.

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ValidViewNetwork cannot independently establish the reported casualty figures from an official statement at this stage. The figures should therefore be treated as reported pending confirmation from the Niger State Government, police or emergency agencies.

The reported stampede has nevertheless added another layer to the controversy surrounding the deaths of the suspected illegal miners and the public response in Minna. ValidViewNetwork reports.