Nigerian Government Closes Mining Site After 37 Deaths

The Nigerian government has mandated the immediate closure of a mining site in Zuraq, Wase Local Government Area, Plateau State, after the tragic death of 37 miners. This directive was announced on Wednesday by Dr.

Dele Alak, the Minister of Solid Minerals, following a statement from Segun Tomori, the Special Assistant on Media. The incident occurred early Tuesday, with 25 other miners hospitalized due to exposure to toxic gaseous emissions from the underground site.

The mining operation, under license number 11810, was reported to have caved in, leading to the exposure of miners to harmful substances, including sulfur oxides. The Ministry has dispatched a team led by Permanent Secretary Yusuf Yabo to investigate the incident and recommend appropriate sanctions.

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang described the event as an unfortunate tragedy affecting innocent citizens trying to earn a living.