Dele Alake, minister of solid minerals development, has ordered the immediate closure of the mining areas covered by Mining Licence 11810 in Zuraq, Wase local government area of Plateau State, following the deaths of villagers allegedly exposed to toxic gaseous emissions while mining.
The site is operated by Solid Unit Nigeria Limited and owned by Abdullahi Dan-China.
Alake also dispatched a high-powered investigative team, led by Yusuf Yabo, permanent secretary of the ministry, to probe the immediate and remote causes of the incident and recommend appropriate sanctions.
The team comprises experts in mining operations, environmental compliance, and artisanal cooperatives.
In a condolence call to Caleb Mutfwang, governor of Plateau State, the minister expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and sympathised with the families and communities affected.
He urged the governor to convey his solidarity to the people of Wase, describing the deaths as an irreparable loss.
Preliminary findings indicated that the company had ceded the pit where the incident occurred to the local community for mining, following villagers’ agitations for economic empowerment.
Unaware of the toxic nature of the emissions, villagers reportedly engaged in extraction activities and inhaled the poisonous gas, leading to fatalities.
The minister said the ministry is coordinating all necessary support services to ensure effective management of the situation and a thorough investigation.
Mining License is 11810 is located between longitudes 10.34.45 and 10.35.50, and latitudes 9.13.45 and 9.14.40.
Alake assured that further details would be made public as the investigations progress.
