By By Elizabeth Ugbo
No fewer than 33 miners died on Wednesday after inhaling carbon monoxide during an underground explosion at a mining site in Kampani Zurak, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State. The incident occurred inside a tunnel reportedly owned by Solid Uni Nig Ltd. Rescue teams evacuated survivors, while authorities launched an investigation into the cause of the disaster.
How the Explosion Happened
According to eyewitnesses, the victims were carrying out routine operations when the incident occurred.
Haruna Safiyanu, a miner in Wase, said toxic gas built up in poorly ventilated tunnels. He explained that the gas triggered a sudden collapse underground.
Most of the victims were young men between 20 and 35 years old. Several workers reportedly collapsed inside the tunnel before help arrived.
Rescue and Medical Response
Immediately after the explosion, rescue teams and mining personnel secured the site. They evacuated injured workers and rushed them to nearby hospitals.
At least 25 miners sustained injuries and are receiving treatment at a primary health centre and other medical facilities. Some remain in critical condition.
Government Reacts to Plateau Mining Explosion in Wase
The Plateau State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Ramnap, confirmed the tragic incident.
She described the explosion as a suspected gas leak that killed at least 33 miners.
“The Plateau State government received reports of a tragic explosion at a mining site in Kampani Zurak,” she said. “Many lives were lost, while others are receiving treatment in nearby hospitals.”
She expressed condolences to the affected families on behalf of the government and people of Plateau State.
Call for Investigation and Safety Enforcement
Furthermore, the commissioner appealed to federal and state agencies responsible for mining regulation and safety enforcement to intervene urgently.
She urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion.
In addition, she called for strict enforcement of safety standards to prevent future occurrences.
Authorities Launch Probe
Meanwhile, the Plateau State government said it is working closely with security agencies, emergency responders and health officials. Officials aim to stabilise the situation and determine the exact cause of the carbon monoxide buildup.
The tragic Plateau mining explosion in Wase has renewed concerns about safety standards in Nigeria’s mining sector.
