38 Miners Die in Gas Leak at Nigerian Mine

By: Adamu Aliyu Ngulde

At least 38 miners were confirmed dead on Wednesday after a suspected carbon monoxide leak at a mining site in Kampani Zurak community in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, officials said, in one of the deadliest mining accidents in the region in recent years.

The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning as miners resumed underground work shortly after observing their dawn prayers. Witnesses said the men began experiencing breathing difficulties inside the tunnel around 6:30 a.m., consistent with gas inhalation.

More than 20 others were injured and taken to nearby hospitals, while several remained missing as rescue efforts continued late into the day.

Local residents attributed the tragedy to a buildup of carbon monoxide inside the pit, though state officials initially described the episode as an explosion without detailing the cause. The site is reportedly operated by Solid Unity Nigeria Limited, a company that has mined lead and zinc in the area for decades. Community members said smaller incidents had occurred in the past, including one in 2025 that claimed two lives.

Joyce Lohya Ramnap, the Plateau State Commissioner for Information and Communication, called the incident “shocking and deeply saddening” and extended condolences to the victims’ families. She said the federal government had ordered the immediate closure of the site pending investigation, following directives from the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal.

For many families in Kampani Zurak, the mine is a primary source of livelihood, drawing workers from across Plateau State and beyond. Most of the victims were young men between the ages of 25 and 40, relatives said. “We have lost our loved ones,” said Isa Jafaru, who said his uncle, a father of 11, was among the dead.

“The government should come to our aid.” Officials said emergency teams were working to secure the area, treat the injured and enforce stricter safety standards to prevent a recurrence.