Plateau mine shut down after deadly gas leak kills villagers
Three dozen villagers died after inhaling toxic gas at a mining site in Plateau State, prompting the Federal Government to order its immediate closure. Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, suspended all activities at the site and sent an investigative team to determine the causes and recommend sanctions. The tragedy highlights the dangers of abandoned mining pits, especially where economic hardship drives informal mining. Alake expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the affected community and called for greater safety and environmental oversight.
What happened
- The Federal Government closed a mining site in Plateau State after about 37 villagers died from toxic gas inhalation during artisanal mining.
- Dele Alake directed the suspension of all activities at the site operated by Solid Unit Nigeria Limited in Zurak, Wase Local Government Area.
- An investigative team led by Yusuf Yabo was dispatched to probe the incident and suggest sanctions.
- The site, previously abandoned and prone to toxic emissions, had been ceded to the community for economic empowerment.
- The incident underscores ongoing risks of informal mining and the need for stricter safety and environmental measures in Nigeria’s mining sector.
