The Birnin Gwari Emirate Progressives Union (BEPU) has called for a thorough and transparent investigation into a deadly clash involving suspected illegal miners in Randagi community, Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
BBC Hausa reported that many people were feared killed in the violence, though the exact casualty figure remained unconfirmed as of the time of filing this report.
In a statement signed by its chairman, Dr Isah Muhammad, BEPU extended condolences to the people of Randagi and the families of those who died, and prayed for the recovery of the injured.
The union urged security agencies and other relevant authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and bring anyone found culpable to justice.
“BEPU calls on the relevant authorities to carry out a prompt, thorough and transparent investigation into the incident. The circumstances surrounding this tragedy must be fully established, and anyone found responsible should be dealt with in accordance with the law,” the statement said.
BEPU also called on the federal government, the Kaduna State government and mining regulatory agencies to strengthen oversight of mining activities in Birnin Gwari. The union said mining holds economic potential but must be conducted in line with safety, environmental and legal standards.
It said it had received complaints from residents over the destruction of farmland and public infrastructure, as well as concerns about the use of hazardous chemicals near water sources during mineral processing — practices it warned could threaten public health, agriculture and the environment if unchecked.
The union further noted that host communities were not benefiting sufficiently from the area’s mineral resources, and urged authorities to ensure mining activities translate into better roads, healthcare, education, clean water and jobs for residents.
BEPU appealed to residents of Randagi and the wider Birnin Gwari Emirate to remain peaceful and cooperate with investigators. It reaffirmed its commitment to working with government, traditional institutions, security agencies and other stakeholders to promote lasting peace, responsible resource management and sustainable development in the area.
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