The Federal Government has ordered the immediate closure of a mining site in Plateau State following a deadly gas incident that claimed the lives of at least 37 miners.
The directive was issued by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, after reports confirmed that miners working underground at the site in Kampani Zurak community, Wase Local Government Area, were exposed to toxic gas believed to be carbon monoxide.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday when gas accumulated inside poorly ventilated tunnels, causing miners to collapse while at work.
About 25 other miners were rescued and taken to hospitals in the area, with several reported to be in critical condition.
Announcing the shutdown, the Minister said the mine had been sealed to allow for a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the incident and to assess the level of compliance with mining safety regulations.
He described the deaths as a tragic and avoidable loss, stressing that the Federal Government would not tolerate operations that endanger lives.
According to the Ministry, a technical team comprising officials responsible for mining safety, environmental compliance and artisanal mining oversight has been deployed to the site.
The team is expected to determine the immediate and remote causes of the gas build-up and recommend appropriate sanctions where violations are found.
Security agencies have cordoned off the mining area to prevent further access and preserve the site for investigation.
The Federal Government has also warned that individuals or companies found culpable could face prosecution in line with existing mining and safety laws.
The Minister conveyed the condolences of the Federal Government to the families of the victims and the government of Plateau State, noting that many of those who died were young men engaged in small-scale mining to earn a living.
The incident has renewed concerns over safety standards in artisanal and small-scale mining operations in the state, whose capital is Jos. Authorities say the tragedy will prompt a broader review of mining activities across the country to prevent a recurrence.
