Residents said the tragedy, which occurred on Wednesday, was a result of fumes from a water-pumping machine which reportedly filled a mining pit where the victims were working.
The deceased were identified as Haruna Usaini and Yusha’u Sale, both from Dan Isa community in Rimin Gado Local Government Area, and another miner identified simply as Danfuli from Daurawa in Doguwa LGA.
A witness, Salisu Abdulhamid, said the tragedy occurred after workers attempted to drain water that had accumulated in the pit following heavy rainfall.
“Heavy rain fell the previous night and the mining pit became flooded, so work was suspended. The following day, a new water-pumping machine was brought in to remove the water before work could resume. The machine emitted fumes that filled the pit. The fumes caused the deaths of three people, while two others collapsed,” he said.
Another villager, Basiru Sale, said one of the deceased persons was his younger brother, Yusha’u Sale.
”He was my younger brother from the same parents. We can only pray that Allah forgives him. He had travelled to Doguwa for this mining work just seven days ago. The last time I saw him alive was before he left, and now it is his body that has been brought back,” he said.
Family members disclosed that Haruna Usaini and Yusha’u Sale would be laid to rest on Thursday in Dan Isa community, Rimin Gado Local Government Area.
The incident has once again highlighted growing safety concerns surrounding artisanal mining activities in Doguwa and neighbouring Tudun Wada Local Government Areas, where many young people from across Kano State travel in search of livelihood.
A government source noted that mining sites in the area operate without the required licences and often fail to comply with basic safety standards.
During an inspection in June, a Kano State Government delegation led by the state revenue agency raised concerns over widespread illegal mining activities and the lack of adequate safety measures. The team also shut down several mining companies allegedly operating without valid licences.
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On behalf of the International Council for Artisanal and Small-scale Mining, IC-ASM, we extend our deepest condolences to the families of Haruna Usaini, Yusha’u Sale, and Danfuli, and to the Riruwai mining community.
This tragic incident highlights the urgent need for improved occupational health and safety, formalization, and access to safe equipment in ASM operations. IC-ASM remains committed to working with governments, communities, and partners to promote responsible mining practices, training on hazard awareness, and safer livelihoods for artisanal miners across Africa and globally.
May their souls rest in peace.
Lawson Chifamba
IC-ASM Secretariat
Connecting Stakeholders • Promoting Responsible ASM • Empowering Mining Communities