A stampede at the Niger State Government House in Minna has reportedly left at least two people dead and several others injured during a gathering involving residents and Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago.
The incident occurred on Tuesday night, September 29, 2026, as a large crowd gathered at the Government House amid reports that cash would be distributed to people present.
Peoples Gazette reported that two people, including a child, were killed in the incident, while other reports published after the event put the death toll at three. The injured were reportedly taken to Minna General Hospital for treatment.
Two of the reported victims were identified as Dije and her daughter, Hurairat, who were internally displaced persons from the Allawa community in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Reports said the gathering was initially connected to efforts to engage youths who were reportedly planning a protest over the deaths of 37 artisanal miners in the state. The youths were allegedly invited to the Government House to discuss the planned demonstration.
The size of the crowd reportedly increased after information spread that Governor Bago would distribute N10,000 to people gathered at the venue. Women and other residents subsequently joined the gathering, according to reports.
Some government appointees had earlier posted on social media that youths had gathered at the Government House to show solidarity with the governor. However, reports indicated that the situation changed after more residents arrived following the alleged information about the cash distribution.
As the crowd grew, a stampede reportedly occurred, resulting in deaths and injuries.
The exact circumstances surrounding the incident remain subject to official clarification. The governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, said the state government would issue a statement on the development.
The spokesperson of the Niger State Police Command, SP Wasiu Abiodun, also said he would verify the incident and provide further information.
The incident has generated concern over crowd management and public safety at large gatherings. Further details, including the confirmed number of casualties and the circumstances that led to the stampede, are expected from the relevant authorities.
The Niger State Government had not, at the time of the reports reviewed, issued a comprehensive official account of the incident.
