WoPU condoles families, Commends Tinubu Government for Proactive Probe into Niger State Miners’ Deaths, Calls for Justice and Preventive Measures

Abuja, September 22, 2026

The Working People United (WoPU), a broad-based pro-labour coalition uniting workers, professionals, and artisans in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 reelection bid, has commended the Federal Government for its swift and decisive intervention following the tragic deaths of 37 artisanal miners detained in Niger State.

WoPU noted that President Tinubu’s directive to inaugurate a 10-member independent investigative committee reflects his administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the sanctity of human life.

The coalition emphasized that no individual should be considered above the law in this matter, insisting that justice must be served decisively and in accordance with due process. This, it stressed, reinforces the principle that the rule of law remains the cornerstone of a fair and democratic society.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, by its Coordinator-General, Comrade (Prince) Williams Eniredonana Akporeha, WoPU praised President Tinubu and the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for placing premium on human lives, upholding human dignity, and demonstrating proactiveness by inaugurating the committee.

Akporeha further commended the appointment of individuals of integrity and accomplished pedigree to serve on the panel, describing the move as one that strengthens public confidence in the government’s pursuit of justice.

WoPU also extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, the Niger State Government led by His Excellency Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, the traditional council, and the citizens of Niger State over the unfortunate but avoidable incident.

Akporeha stressed that the tragedy must serve as a turning point for Nigeria to strengthen oversight and accountability in the mining sector. He urged the government to adopt preventive measures to avert similar occurrences in the future, including:

• Strengthened Regulation and Technological Surveillance: Establish robust frameworks for regulating artisanal mining activities, while deploying advanced technologies such as drones and satellite imaging to broaden surveillance, minimize human error, and ensure real-time oversight.

• Deployment of CCTV in Detention Facilities: Install CCTV cameras across all cells and detention facilities operated by law enforcement agencies, including correctional centres, to provide real-time monitoring and verifiable evidence during investigations.

• Strict Capacity and Environmental Standards: Enforce mandatory checks to prevent overcrowding and ensure humane conditions through regular inspections of ventilation, sanitation, lighting, and water supply.

• Medical Screening and Continuous Healthcare: Conduct mandatory medical assessments for detainees upon admission, with access to qualified healthcare professionals, emergency response systems, and routine medical checks to prevent avoidable fatalities.

•Special Protection for Vulnerable Groups: Ensure minors, women, and vulnerable detainees are housed in safeguarded environments with tailored support services.

“The Federal Government has shown that human life is sacred and must be protected at all costs. This proactive step is commendable, but we must go further to ensure such tragedies never happen again,” Akporeha stated.

WoPU reaffirmed its support for the Tinubu administration, noting that responsible governance, justice, and respect for human dignity remain central to the coalition’s vision for a better Nigeria.