In Bauchi State, North East Nigeria, women from Gada Biyu and nearby communities recently organised a protest to demand action against the health and environmental threats posed by unregulated mining.
This demonstration highlights a growing human rights concern, as women seek protection for their families and communities from the severe risks associated with unchecked mining operations.
Led by Matthias Ugonma, Executive Director of the Media Advocacy on Climate Change Initiative, the protest shed light on how these mining practices violate fundamental rights to health and safety. Represented at the rally by Jilima Bishari, Matthias stressed that women and children bear the brunt of this crisis, facing polluted water supplies, respiratory issues, and health risks from toxic dust and contamination.
“Our communities are suffering disproportionately, especially our women and children,” Matthias asserted, drawing attention to the disproportionate impact on vulnerable groups.
The women’s calls for justice reflect a demand for urgent government intervention to protect basic human rights. They highlighted specific issues such as contaminated drinking water, deteriorating air quality, and threats to food security from livestock deaths—all stemming from irresponsible mining practices. The women also condemned the exploitation of child labor in the mines, calling for immediate safeguards to protect minors from hazardous working conditions.
In response, Tukur Ibrahim, Director of Mines and Surveillance at the Federal Ministry of Mines in Bauchi, assured the protesters of an immediate assessment to address these environmental and health risks. However, the women emphasised the need for a sustainable, rights-based approach that prioritises community health and safety alongside economic considerations.
This protest in Bauchi is part of a broader movement to uphold human rights in mining-affected areas across Nigeria. Unregulated mining has exposed countless communities to toxic substances, leading to a rise in health issues and environmental damage. The women of Bauchi are determined to prevent further harm and safeguard their right to a safe, healthy, and livable environment.
