Mining site collapse: Host communities threaten legal action, demand compensation

The Niger State chapter of the Federation of Nigeria Mining Host Communities has threatened to sue the African Minerals and Logistics Limited, the company managing the collapsed mining site in Galadima-Kogo, Shiroro LGA of Niger State. Daily Trust Saturday reported how the mining site collapsed, trapping over 30 labourers. Three weeks after the collapse, the […]

The Niger State chapter of the Federation of Nigeria Mining Host Communities has threatened to sue the African Minerals and Logistics Limited, the company managing the collapsed mining site in Galadima-Kogo, Shiroro LGA of Niger State.

Daily Trust Saturday reported how the mining site collapsed, trapping over 30 labourers.

Three weeks after the collapse, the victims including the site manager, Alhaji Ishaku Ibrahim were yet to be rescued.

The body in a communique jointly at the end of its emergency meeting in Minna said relevant authorities would be engaged to investigate whether or not the mining company operating the site had obtained licences or lease permit from the appropriate authorities.

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The communiqué signed by Habibu Wushishi, State Coordinator and National Co-chair and Mohammed Mohammed, State Secretary, said it will in collaboration with the officials of the Mines Workers Union of Nigeria, the state’s Ministry of Mineral Resources, Environment and other stakeholders seek the release of identities of the victims and ascertain level of exploitation of locals by mining companies in the state.

“If the company is found culpable of using host community members and they form part of the victims, the federation will seek for assistance from its secretariat (Global Rights) to push for proper investigation, arraignment and prosecution of the management of Africa Minerals and Logistics Limited and seek for compensation for the victims to serve as deterrent to other companies in Niger State and the nation as a whole”, the communique read in part.