- He affirmed the state’s readiness to partner with federal authorities to enhance safety in the sector
- The minister also expressed concern over the absence of technical officials
- He called for greater support for the community, including improved road infrastructure to enhance access
The Federal Government has launched a comprehensive probe into the mining disaster that claimed at least 37 lives in the Zurak community, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, while 25 others remain hospitalised.
On Thursday, Eko Hot Blog gathered that the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Henry Dele Alake, represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Faruk Yabo, led a delegation to the affected site.
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The team included senior officials such as directors from Mines Compliance, Inspectorate, and Environmental Compliance and Special Duties, alongside representatives of the Plateau State Government.
The visit followed Tuesday’s early morning incident, which was reportedly linked to suspected emissions of toxic gases, including carbon monoxide and sulphur, at the mining location.
Addressing residents after inspecting the site, the minister described the loss of over 30 workers as deeply distressing and extended condolences to grieving families. He explained that the delegation was in the community to establish the facts surrounding the tragedy.
Preliminary findings point to the possible presence of hazardous gases, although investigations are ongoing to determine the precise cause.
The minister also expressed concern over the absence of technical officials from the licensed mining firm, emphasising that operators bear responsibility for ensuring safety standards are upheld.
Security reports, he added, suggest there may have been breaches of safety regulations, particularly involving illegal mining activities in the area. He assured residents that the inquiry would be thorough and that measures would be introduced to prevent similar incidents.
Also speaking, Assistant Commandant of Corps Attah Onoja, who heads the Mining Marshals under the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, said the disaster underscores the need to intensify efforts against unlawful mining.
He pledged that any recommendations from the investigation would be enforced and called for closer collaboration among security agencies.
Plateau State Commissioner for Environment, Climate Change and Mineral Development, Peter Gwom, noted that mining is under the Exclusive Legislative List but advocated stronger enforcement of the Mining Act 2007. He affirmed the state’s readiness to partner with federal authorities to enhance safety in the sector.
Gwom stressed that Plateau’s mineral resources should drive development rather than result in loss of life. He revealed that the state government has begun organising miners into cooperatives, offering training, protective equipment, and financial support to reduce risks.
“We cannot continue to witness the growing number of widows and orphans due to unsafe mining,” he said.
The Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Ramnap, conveyed Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s condolences to the community and reiterated the administration’s commitment to regulating mining activities. She referenced the governor’s earlier suspension of illegal mining operations as part of broader safety reforms.
Wase Local Government Chairman, Hamis Anani, praised the swift response by both federal and state authorities.
Speaking on behalf of affected families, traditional ruler Hakimi Bashar Aliyu Adamu Idris expressed appreciation for the government’s visit but highlighted the severe humanitarian toll.
He called for greater support for the community, including improved road infrastructure to enhance access, security, and safer mining operations.
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