In a heartbreaking incident, 13 people lost their lives when a mining site collapsed in Bassa Local Government Area (LGA) in Plateau State. This tragic event was confirmed by Dr. Joshua Riti, Chairman of Bassa LGA, who spoke to reporters on Monday in Jos, deeply saddened by the loss of life. The collapse, which occurred on Saturday, has sent shockwaves through the affected communities as families mourn their loved ones.
The site, situated near the boundaries of Bassa, Jos South, and Jos North LGAs, was a known mining area where young men and women labored, hoping to make a living. Dr. Riti revealed that seven of those who perished were from Bassa LGA, bringing grief to the local community. He expressed his sorrow over the lives lost, especially as these were young individuals seeking ways to support themselves amidst Nigeria’s economic hardships.
“These young people went out, determined to work hard, putting their strength and youth into something they believed would sustain them. Sadly, they met with an untimely death,” Dr. Riti remarked, reflecting on the painful impact this tragedy has had on the community. He offered his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, recognizing the devastating effects of the incident on those left behind.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that most of the deceased were young adults, aged between 18 and 30, whose dreams and aspirations were tragically cut short. The tragedy underscores the dangers faced by those working in informal mining operations across Nigeria, where safety conditions are often inadequate. In addition to mourning the dead, many are now calling for improved regulations and safeguards to prevent such losses in the future.
The incident serves as a grim reminder of the risks many young Nigerians take to secure a livelihood, especially in challenging economic times.
