The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has ordered the immediate closure of areas covered by Mining Licence 11810 in Zuraq, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, following the tragic deaths of villagers allegedly exposed to poisonous gaseous emissions while mining.
The affected site, operated by Solid Unit Nigeria Limited and owned by Abdullahi Dan-China, was sealed off as part of urgent measures to prevent further casualties.
In a condolence call to Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, Alake expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, describing the victims as innocent citizens who died in the course of seeking a livelihood.
He urged the governor to convey his heartfelt sympathy and solidarity to the grieving families and the people of Wase.
The Minister has also dispatched a high-powered investigative team led by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Engr. Yusuf Yabo, to unravel both the immediate and remote causes of the incident and recommend appropriate sanctions.
The team comprises experts in mining operations, environmental compliance and artisanal mining cooperatives.
Alake is personally coordinating the investigation and support services to ensure proper management of the situation.
Preliminary findings indicate that the company had ceded the abandoned pit to members of the community following agitation for empowerment. The site, reportedly an old lead mining location, is believed to contain stored minerals capable of emitting sulphuric oxide a toxic gas.
Unaware of the health risks, villagers allegedly carried out mining activities in the pit while inhaling the hazardous fumes, leading to the fatal incident.
Mining Licence 11810 is located between longitudes 10.34.45 and 10.35.50, and latitudes 9.13.45 and 9.14.40.
The Minister assured that further details would be made public as investigations progress.
