One killed as dynamite stored in building explodes in Niger state

At least one person was killed on Sunday morning following an explosion in Sabon-Pegi community, Mashegu LGA of Niger state.

Wasiu Abiodun, spokesperson of the state police command, who confirmed the incident, said the explosion was caused by dynamite reportedly stored in a residential area by one Yushau.

He said six other people sustained injuries from the blast and 12 houses were destroyed.

Abiodun identified the deceased as Fatima Sadauki.

The police spokesperson said the suspect, who stored the explosives for “mining activities”, is now at large.

“On January 26th, 2025 at about 7.30am, there was an explosion of some suspected dynamites at Sabon-pegi, Mashegu LGA which was reportedly kept in a residential area by one Yushau for a purported mining activity,” Abiodun said in a statement.

“The explosion led to the unfortunate death of one Fatima Sadauki, while six others were injured and taken to general hospital Kainji for medical attention.

“The incident affected about twelve houses in the area and the Commissioner of Police, Niger State Command CP Shawulu Ebenezer Danmamman has ordered for an investigation into the incident, dispatched EOD-CBRN unit to the scene for assessment, but the said Yushau is currently at large. However, normalcy has been restored in the area while monitoring continues.”

In January 2024, at least five people were killed in an explosion in Bodija axis of Ibadan, the Oyo state capital.

Seyi Makinde, the state governor, said the blast was caused by explosive devices stored in a residential apartment by illegal miners.