By Muhammad Mamman
A devastating incident at a mining site in Zurak, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, has claimed the lives of 37 miners, with a further 25 hospitalised after exposure to carbon monoxide gas while working deep underground.
According to sources, the tragedy occurred at the Solid Mining Company early on 18 February. The victims, predominantly young men aged between 20 and 35, were engaged in routine mining operations when toxic gas, which had accumulated in poorly ventilated tunnels, overwhelmed them.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as miners collapsed within the tunnels, while colleagues desperately attempted to rescue survivors. Emergency response teams, assisted by site personnel, swiftly cordoned off the area and evacuated the injured to a nearby primary health centre, where several are reported to be in critical condition.
Safety experts emphasise that robust ventilation, continuous gas monitoring, and comprehensive emergency protocols are vital to preventing such disasters in underground mining operations.
Plateau State authorities have pledged a full investigation to determine whether the mining company adhered to safety regulations and to establish accountability. Official updates, including the identities of victims and responses from regulatory bodies, are expected in the coming days.
