FG Closes Wase Mining Site After Toxic Gas Deaths

The Federal Government of Nigeria has ordered the closure of a mining site in Wase Local Government Area, Plateau State, after several villagers reportedly died due to toxic gas emissions from an abandoned mine pit. The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alak, expressed condolences to the families affected and urged Governor Caleb Mutfwang to convey solidarity to the people of Wase.

A forensic investigation team, led by Permanent Secretary Engr. Yusuf Yabo, has been dispatched to probe the immediate causes of the incident and recommend sanctions. Preliminary reports indicate that the mining company ceded the pit to the community, which had been abandoned and became a site for sulfur oxide emissions, posing a poisoning risk to villagers.

The Minister has promised further disclosures as the investigation continues.