The Plateau State Government has confirmed a tragic explosion at a mining site in Kampani Zurak, Wase Local Government Area, reportedly owned by Solid Unit Nig. Ltd., describing the incident as shocking and deeply saddening.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Lohya Ramnap, the government said preliminary reports indicate that dozens of miners were trapped at the time of the incident.
According to preliminary information, about 33 persons were said to have been inside the mining tunnel at the time of the explosion. Sadly, many lives are feared lost, while others who sustained injuries are currently receiving treatment in nearby hospitals.
The government expressed sympathy with families affected by the tragedy and assured that urgent steps are being taken to manage the situation and support victims.
“Government is deeply concerned about the development and is working closely with relevant security agencies, emergency responders, and health authorities to ensure that the situation is brought under control.”
Residents of Kampani Zurak and surrounding communities were urged to remain calm, cooperate with authorities, and avoid spreading unverified information that could cause panic.
“Government calls on residents of Kampani Zurak and surrounding communities to remain calm and law-abiding. We urge the public to avoid spreading unverified information that may heighten tension or panic.”
The statement also called for immediate intervention by relevant federal and state agencies to investigate the cause of the explosion and enforce mining safety standards.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, has ordered the immediate shutdown of all mining activities in the affected area, with a federal team expected to arrive to assess the situation.
The Plateau State Government assured the public that it will leave no stone unturned in addressing the tragedy and safeguarding lives in mining communities across the state.
