The Federal Government has launched a full investigation into the mining disaster in Zurak community, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, which left at least 37 dead and 25 hospitalized.
A federal delegation, led by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, through Permanent Secretary, Faruk Yabo, visited the site Thursday. The team included the Directors of Mines Compliance, Inspectorate, Environmental Compliance, and Special Duties, alongside Plateau State Government representatives.
The tragedy, which occurred early Tuesday, is believed to involve toxic gases, including carbon monoxide and sulphite emissions, though the exact cause is still under review. Alake expressed condolences, calling the incident “deeply tragic”, and noted the absence of technical staff from the licensed mining company. He highlighted that license holders are responsible for safety oversight and warned that early reports suggest illegal mining may have contributed to the disaster.
National Commander of Mining Marshals under the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Assistant Commandant Attah Onoja, emphasized that the tragedy reinforces federal efforts to eliminate illegal mining, assuring that investigation findings will be enforced.
Plateau State Commissioner for Environment, Climate Change, and Mineral Development, Peter Gwom, stressed the need for stronger enforcement of the Mining Act 2007. He highlighted state initiatives to organize miners into cooperatives, provide training, safety equipment, and micro-loans to reduce fatalities. “Our mineral resources should be a blessing, not a source of tragedy”, he said.
Commissioner for Information, Joyce Ramnap, conveyed Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s condolences and reiterated the suspension of illegal mining activities to ensure safety. Wase Local Government Chairman, Hamis Anani, praised the swift federal and state response, while traditional ruler Hakimi Bashar Aliyu Adamu Idris thanked officials but lamented the humanitarian impact, with many widows and fatherless children.
The Federal Government has pledged a thorough investigation to prevent future mining disasters in Plateau State.
