By Eyo Nsima
The Action Group on Free Civic Space (AGFCS) said it has condemned ‘the gross negligence that has so far resulted in the tragic loss of two lives and the injury of 77 others in the catastrophic explosion, which happened at Bodija, Ibadan, on January 16, 2024.
In a statement obtained by The Daily, www.thedaily-ng.com, the AGFCS, made up of Centre for Community Empowerment and Poverty Eradication (CCEPE), Healthy Life Development Initiative, Peace Point Development Foundation (PPDF), Policy Alert, Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy and Development (FENRAD), World Impact Development Foundation (WIDEF), Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative, Building Blocks for Peace Foundation, Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC-Nigeria), Rainbow Watch and Development Centre, Atune Ngun Foundation, Elixir Trust Foundation, EIFAY Africa and Spaces for Change, S4C, stated: “The Action Group on Free Civic Space (AGFCS) vehemently condemns the gross negligence that has so far resulted in the tragic loss of two lives and the injury of 77 others in the catastrophic explosion which happened at Bodija, Ibadan, on January 16, 2024, as it represents a flagrant violation of universal human rights principles, national safety regulations and a rupture of the civic space.
“The scourge of illegal mining in Nigeria has reached a critical juncture, vividly highlighted by this recent tragedy in Ibadan. This incident is not an isolated case but a symptom of a pervasive and deep-rooted problem. Across Nigeria, illegal mining activities have wreaked havoc, leading to environmental degradation, economic losses, and now, the loss of innocent lives.
“The Nigerian government’s response to this growing menace has been woefully inadequate, marked by a pattern of negligence and a lack of robust enforcement. Such inaction not only undermines the rule of law but also endangers the lives of its citizens.
“The continuous overlook of illegal mining operations, often with impunity, reflects a blatant disregard for the well-being of the Nigerian people and the country’s environmental and economic integrity. The government’s failure to take decisive and effective measures against this is a dereliction of its duty to protect its citizens and preserve the nation’s resources. This negligence must be addressed immediately, with stringent enforcement of laws and regulations, to prevent further tragedies and uphold the social contract between the Nigerian state and its people.
“This incident also necessitates a thorough review and overhaul of national policies on hazardous material management and mining activities, aligning them with international best practices to prevent a recurrence.
“Also, as we call for an immediate, independent, and transparent inquiry into the issue, ensuring rigorous adherence to the principles of justice and accountability, we demand that the findings of this investigation must be made public, and those found culpable must face the full force of the law.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones and express our firm solidarity with the injured. However, condolence without action is hollow. The AGFCS will relentlessly pursue justice for the victims and advocate for the fortification of civic spaces against such negligent infringements.”
It added: “As we continue to closely monitor the unfolding tragedy, we urge all citizens to remain vigilant and to hold their representatives accountable. We will not stand idly by as the sanctity of our civic space is breached, and the safety of our compatriots compromised. The time for platitudes has passed; the time for actionable commitment to our collective security is now.”
