A toxic gas leak at a mining site in north-central Nigeria has claimed the lives of 37 people and left 26 others hospitalised, police have confirmed.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday in Kampani Zurak community, situated in the Wase area of Plateau State. Police spokesperson Alfred Alabo said preliminary findings indicate that the miners were exposed to a sudden release of dangerous gases while working.
According to authorities, the discharge involved lead oxide along with other harmful gases such as sulphur and carbon monoxide. These substances are highly toxic, particularly in confined or poorly ventilated underground environments.
Police said the bodies of the deceased have been released to their families for burial in accordance with their religious customs.
Following the tragedy, the federal government ordered the immediate closure of the mining site, and a full investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the leak and whether safety protocols were in place.
Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, stated that the miners were unaware of the toxic nature of the emissions and continued working despite the danger.
Authorities have not yet confirmed what mineral was being extracted at the site or whether the operation was legally registered. The country has struggled for years with illegal and poorly regulated mining activities, particularly in the gold sector, which have resulted in numerous fatal accidents.
Investigators are now working to establish the circumstances surrounding the gas release and assess accountability as families mourn the loss of their loved ones.
