The Yauri Local Government Council of Kebbi State has imposed a night-time curfew in Yauri town following a violent clash linked to illegal gold mining activities.
The curfew, effective from 9:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., was announced on Wednesday to restore order and prevent further unrest.
The violence reportedly began on Tuesday night when security operatives intervened to stop the lynching of a suspect accused of killing a gold miner. The intervention allegedly provoked miners, who carried out reprisal attacks.
Eyewitnesses said the miners went on a rampage shortly after the suspect was rescued, burning tyres and blocking the Yauri–Zuru highway, disrupting vehicular movement. Security agencies later dispersed the protesters.
An anonymous source told reporters that two commercial motorcycle riders were found dead on Tuesday, with their deaths suspected to be linked to ongoing illegal mining activities.
The source added that miners resumed operations just two days after a government directive ordering a halt to mining in the area.
The council said the curfew was necessary to protect lives and property and allow security agencies to manage the situation effectively.
Violent clashes related to illegal mining have been reported across northern Nigeria. In September 2025, the Yauri council imposed a similar curfew following a clash involving youths in the Garin Katta community.
Recall that the Northern Governors’ Forum and the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council, on December 1, called for a six-month suspension of mining activities across the region, citing illegal mining as a key factor in worsening insecurity.
They urged the Federal Government to suspend mining exploration and conduct an audit and revalidation of mining licences in collaboration with state governments.
