Ask Onix
Toxic gas leak claims lives of 33 miners in Plateau state
A suspected carbon monoxide leak at a lead and zinc mine operated by Solid Unity Nigeria Ltd has resulted in the deaths of at least 33 miners, officials and witnesses said on Tuesday.
Incident details
The tragedy unfolded just before sunrise near the town of Wase, approximately 200 km southeast of the state capital Jos. Workers on the night shift reportedly collapsed after toxic gas accumulated in poorly ventilated underground tunnels.
Miners arriving for the morning shift discovered the bodies around 06:30 local time (05:30 GMT). More than 20 others were rescued and transported to a local hospital for urgent medical care.
Survivor account
Safiyanu Haruna, one of the miners who found the victims, told the BBC that the workers had just completed early morning Muslim prayers before returning underground to finish their shift.
"It was carbon monoxide gas that leaked and killed them. There was no rescue for them at the time because those who were coming for the morning shift had yet to arrive."
Safiyanu Haruna, miner
Haruna said 37 miners had died, though state officials later reported 33 fatalities. The discrepancy remains unresolved.
Response and investigation
Security forces have sealed off the mine site as authorities launch an inquiry into the cause of the gas leak. The Nigerian government has suspended mining licenses in the area pending further findings.
State officials have yet to visit the site, citing security risks posed by armed criminal groups known locally as "bandits," which have been active in the region in recent years.
Community impact
The victims, believed to be men aged between 20 and 40, were buried shortly after the incident in accordance with local Muslim traditions. The tragedy has deeply affected the predominantly Muslim community.
"It is sad to lose 37 miners who were struggling to make ends meet. We're disturbed by the incident," Haruna said.
Broader safety concerns
Mining disasters are not uncommon in Nigeria. In 2024, dozens of gold miners died after torrential rains caused a pit collapse in neighboring Niger state.
The latest incident is expected to reignite debates over safety standards in Nigeria's mining sector, which has faced repeated criticism for poor regulation and enforcement.
