Niger Mining Tragedy: Babangida Calls For Transparent Investigation

Published September 19, 2026 at 6:08 AM

By ireporteronline Staff

Former military Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, has called for a thorough investigation into the reported deaths of suspected illegal miners while in custody in Niger State.

According to reports, Babangida made his position known through Dr Danladi Umar Abdulhameed, also known as Tambarin Kagara, while expressing support for the Niger State Government’s decision to establish a committee of inquiry and conduct forensic examinations.

The former military leader described the incident as disturbing and urged authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths, determine the actual causes and ensure that the findings are made available to the affected families.

Babangida also appealed to residents of Niger State, particularly youths and relatives of the deceased, to remain calm and allow investigators to carry out their duties without interference.

He stressed the importance of a transparent investigation that would provide answers to the victims’ families and guide the authorities in taking appropriate action based on the findings.

The call comes as the state government continues efforts to investigate the reported deaths and address concerns surrounding the incident.