37 miners dead, 25 hospitalised after toxic gas leak at abandoned Plateau mine

At least 37 miners have died after inhaling carbon monoxide inside an abandoned mining pit in Kampani, a community in Plateau State’s Wase area.

The incident happened around 5:45 a.m. on Wednesday, when a group of villagers entered the disused underground site to extract minerals. According to a security report and police source, the miners were exposed to toxic gas trapped within the tunnel. Twenty-five others were rescued and taken to hospital.

Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, said the site was a former lead mine where residual mineral deposits could release dangerous gases. He said those who entered the tunnel were unaware of the risk.

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Following the incident, the federal government ordered the immediate suspension of mining activities in the area. Operations linked to licence 11810, held by Solid Unit Nigeria Limited and owned by Abdullahi Dan-China, have been shut down pending investigation.

Preliminary findings indicate that the victims, aged between 20 and 35, died while working underground. Plateau State authorities said several injured miners remain in hospital.

Security personnel have since sealed off the site to prevent further entry.

Oluwatosin Ogunjuyigbe is a writer and journalist who covers business, finance, technology, and the changing forces shaping Nigeria’s economy. He focuses on turning complex ideas into clear, compelling stories.

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