The Federal Government has ordered the closure of the Solid Unity Nigeria Limited mining site in Kampani Zurak community, Wase Local Government Area, Plateau State, after an alleged carbon monoxide leak killed 38 miners and injured over 20 others on Wednesday. Authorities have also initiated a forensic investigation into the cause of the incident.
During an on-site assessment on Thursday, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Henry Dele Alake, attributed the tragedy to safety lapses and expressed concern over the absence of technical representatives from the licensed mining company. Preliminary reports indicate possible non-compliance with safety regulations, he said.
Alake assured that a full investigation would determine the exact cause of the accident and measures would be put in place to prevent a recurrence. “It is highly tragic for a community to lose more than 30 able-bodied persons. We are here to gather facts and extend condolences to the families of those who lost loved ones,” he stated.
Plateau State Commissioner for Environment, Climate Change, and Mineral Development, Peter Gwom, highlighted the need for stricter enforcement of the Mining Act 2007 and stressed that mining activities should prioritize safety. He noted that the state is organizing miners into cooperatives, providing training, safety equipment, and micro-loans to reduce fatalities.
“We have too many widows and fatherless children due to unsafe mining practices. This must stop,” Gwom said.
The State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Ramnap, conveyed the condolences of Governor Caleb Mutfwang to the affected community and reiterated the importance of adhering to mining regulations. She also referenced the governor’s previous suspension of illegal mining activities to enhance safety and compliance.
