37 Die From Gas Inhalation At Plateau Mining Site

Tragedy struck at a mining site in Zurak community, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, as over 37 miners reportedly died from carbon monoxide poisoning while working underground.

LEADERSHIP gathered that 25 others were hospitalised and are currently receiving treatment at a nearby primary health centre.

Haruna Safiyanu, a miner in Wase, told our correspondent that the victims, mostly young men aged between 20 and 35, were engaged in routine operations at a Mining company when they inhaled the toxic gas that had built up in the ventilated tunnels.

According to him, some miners suddenly collapsed inside the shafts, prompting frantic efforts by colleagues to evacuate survivors.

Emergency teams, supported by mining site personnel, swiftly cordoned off the affected area and rushed the injured to medical facilities for urgent care.

Meanwhile, the Plateau Government has also confirmed the reports of a tragic explosion at a mining site in Kampani Zurak, reportedly owned by Solid Unit Nigeria Limited.

According to a statement issued by the Commissioner of Information and Communication, Rt Hon. Joyce Ramnap, preliminary information indicates that miners were said to have been inside the mining tunnel at the time of the explosion.

“Sadly, many lives are feared lost, while others who sustained injuries are currently receiving treatment in nearby hospitals.

“Government is deeply concerned about the development and is working closely with relevant security agencies, emergency responders, and health authorities to ensure that the situation is brought under control.

The Commissioner further added that efforts are ongoing to secure the site, provide medical assistance to the injured, and prevent any further loss of life.

She called on residents of Kampani Zurak and surrounding communities to remain calm and law-abiding and urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information that may heighten tension or panic.

“Furthermore, we appeal to all relevant federal and state agencies responsible for mining regulation, safety enforcement, and disaster response to urgently intervene, conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion, and ensure that appropriate safety standards are strictly enforced to prevent future occurrences.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner also explained that the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, had earlier reached out to Governor Caleb Mutfwang and directed the immediate and total shutdown of all mining activities in the affected area pending further investigations.

According to her, in furtherance of this directive, a high-powered team of experts from the Federal Ministry of Environment will arrive in Wase Tomorrow from Abuja to assess the situation.

“The Government assures the public that no stone will be left unturned in addressing this tragedy and safeguarding lives across mining communities in the state, “She said.