Amnesty urges probe into Minna stampede that killed three
Amnesty International has urged Nigerian authorities to investigate the deaths of three individuals in a stampede at the Niger State Government House in Minna, emphasizing that the tragedy underscores the escalating economic hardship faced by millions of Nigerians.
The incident occurred on Tuesday as a large crowd gathered at the Government House amid expectations that Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago would distribute cash to residents. At least three women were reported dead, with several others sustaining injuries. Local sources identified two of the deceased as internally displaced persons from Allawa community in the Shiroro Local Government Area.
Two critically injured victims were transferred from Minna General Hospital to the IBB Specialist Hospital for further treatment.
Amnesty International described the circumstances leading to the deaths as particularly troubling, noting that many affected individuals had already been displaced due to ongoing insecurity. The organization highlighted the incident as a reflection of the severe economic and food insecurity affecting vulnerable Nigerians.
“It is shocking that among the deceased are families displaced by insecurity,” Amnesty stated. The group recalled similar deadly stampedes during food and relief material distributions in December 2024, which resulted in the deaths of at least 65 people in Abuja, Anambra, and Oyo.
Amnesty characterized these repeated incidents as “chilling reminders” of the pervasive economic crisis, asserting that many families are increasingly unable to afford basic necessities. The organization urged Nigerian authorities to implement concrete measures to alleviate economic hardship and rising poverty, emphasizing that all individuals should be able to live with dignity.
The Niger State Government announced it would release an official statement regarding the Minna incident, while local police are currently investigating the reports of death and injury associated with the stampede.
