The Nigeria Union of Mine Workers (NUMW) has called for an immediate investigation into the mining accident in Kogi State that claimed the lives of several miners, urging the Federal Government to strengthen safety regulations and establish a national database of mine workers.
In a statement issued by its National President, Comrade Hamza Muhammad, the union said it received with “deep sorrow, pain and shock” reports and video evidence of the incident in Ankpa Local Government Area, where some of its members were buried while at work.
The union described the tragedy as a national loss, extending condolences to the bereaved families, injured workers and the people of the local government area.
“This is not just a loss to the families. It is a loss to the entire nation and labour movement, the mining industry and the country. Our hearts bleed with you,” the statement said.
The union prayed for the repose of the deceased and wished those injured a speedy recovery.
“We pray that Almighty God, in His infinite mercy, grants the souls of the departed eternal rest, grants quick and full recovery to the injured, and gives the families the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” it added.
The NUMW said the tragedy must serve as a wake-up call for authorities to prioritise workers’ safety across the mining sector.
It called on the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the incident and ensure strict enforcement of occupational health and safety standards at mining sites nationwide.
“Safety must not be negotiable,” the union stressed.
The union also urged the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment to collaborate with NUMW and other stakeholders to establish and maintain a national database of mine workers.
According to the union, such a database would ensure that every mine worker is registered, insured and easily traceable for welfare, compensation and emergency response.
The NUMW further appealed to the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Solid Minerals to sponsor legislation making it compulsory for all mining companies operating in Nigeria to register their workers with the union and a Federal Government mine workers’ database.
It said the proposed law should also prescribe stiff penalties for operators that violate safety regulations or fail to protect the lives of workers.
“An injury to one is an injury to all. The life of every mine worker matters,” the union said.
Reaffirming its support for the victims and their families, the union pledged to pursue justice and improved workplace safety across the mining industry.
“We stand in full solidarity with all workers and the families at this difficult time. We assure you that NUMW will not rest until justice is done and safety is guaranteed,” the statement added.
