The Federal Government has inaugurated a high-level investigation committee to probe the gas poisoning incident at a mining site in Zurak, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, which claimed 37 lives and left over 20 others hospitalised.
Speaking at the inauguration in Abuja, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Henry Dele Alake, described the incident as tragic and a wake-up call for stricter safety compliance across Nigeria’s mining sector.
The minister who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Faruk Yabo, said preliminary findings point to lapses in health and safety standards, weak regulatory enforcement, and operational negligence, stressing the need for a thorough investigation to determine both immediate and underlying causes.
The Minister announced the immediate suspension of Solid Unit Mining Company Limited from operations at the affected site, pending the outcome of the investigation.
He explained that the measure is necessary to safeguard lives and ensure full compliance with mining regulations.
According to him, the committee has been mandated to conduct a comprehensive technical and regulatory assessment of the incident, including safety practices, environmental compliance, community relations, and operational standards.
He noted that the move aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises safety, accountability, and sustainable development in the mining industry.
The Minister reaffirmed government’s commitment to transforming the mining sector into a safe, investor-friendly industry, adding that no economic benefit justifies the loss of lives.
He urged mining companies to prioritise safety and maintain stronger partnerships with host communities, while assuring that the Federal Government will implement the committee’s recommendations.
The panel is also expected to recommend measures to prevent future occurrences and strengthen oversight in the sector.
The committee has been given 21 days to submit its report.
