FG shuts Plateau mine after gas leak kills 37

The Federal Government has ordered the immediate closure of a mining site in Plateau State after at least 37 villagers reportedly died from inhaling toxic gases during artisanal mining activities.

The incident occurred in Zurak community in Wase Local Government Area, where dozens of miners were said to have been exposed to suspected carbon monoxide inside poorly ventilated underground tunnels. About 25 others were hospitalised following the exposure.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, directed the suspension of operations at Mining Licence 11810 operated by Solid Unit Nigeria Limited after the tragedy.

According to a statement issued by the minister’s media aide, Segun Tomori, Alake expressed deep sorrow over the deaths during a condolence visit to Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, describing the victims as citizens trying to earn a living.

The minister also dispatched a high-level investigative team led by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Yusuf Yabo, to determine the immediate and underlying causes of the incident and recommend sanctions.

The team includes experts in mining operations, environmental compliance and artisanal mining cooperatives.

Preliminary findings suggest the mining company allegedly ceded the abandoned pit to members of the host community following agitation for economic opportunities. The site, identified as an abandoned lead mine, is believed to contain mineral deposits capable of emitting hazardous gases such as sulphuric oxide.

Unaware of the risks, villagers reportedly engaged in manual extraction activities and inhaled the poisonous emissions, leading to the fatal incident.

The tragedy highlights ongoing safety and environmental concerns linked to abandoned mining pits across Nigeria, particularly in rural communities where economic hardship pushes residents into informal mining.

Experts have long warned that disused mining sites in states such as Plateau, Zamfara and Niger pose public health risks due to exposure to toxic gases, heavy metals and contaminated water.

The development comes as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to formalise artisanal mining, strengthen environmental oversight and attract investment into the sector.

However, the latest incident underscores persistent gaps in monitoring host communities and enforcing mine closure and rehabilitation obligations.

Officials said further details would be released as investigations continue, with the Plateau incident expected to influence reforms on abandoned mine management, community engagement and environmental remediation nationwide.