Tragedy in Plateau: 37 Artisanal Miners Killed in Gas Leak, FG Shuts Down Site

 

The Federal Government has ordered the immediate shutdown of a mining site in Plateau State following a devastating gas leak that claimed the lives of 37 artisanal miners.

According to reports, the incident occurred at a mining location in Zurak, within Wase Local Government Area, where victims—mostly young men between the ages of 20 and 35—inhaled toxic fumes believed to be carbon monoxide. An additional 25 persons were hospitalised after being exposed to the gas, which reportedly accumulated in poorly ventilated tunnels during routine underground operations.

In response to the tragedy, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, ordered the suspension of all activities on Mining Licence 11810, which is operated by Solid Unit Nigeria Limited.

A statement issued by the minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, revealed that Alake delivered the directive during a condolence visit to Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, in Abuja. The minister expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing the victims as innocent citizens who were merely trying to earn a livelihood.