At least 37 young miners lost their lives early Tuesday after breathing in deadly carbon monoxide gas deep underground in Zurak, Plateau State.
The disaster struck at a zinc mining site in Company Zurak, Wase Local Government Area.
Workers dug deep into poorly ventilated tunnels when toxic gas built up and overwhelmed them.
Most victims were men aged 20 to 35 who chased daily wages in the risky trade.
Survivors rushed 25 others to nearby hospitals, where doctors fight to save them.
Several remain in critical condition. Youth leader Shafi Sambo received the heartbreaking news early that morning.
“The miners went in for routine work,” he explained, “but the gas hit fast and killed 37 instantly.”
He stressed that troops secured the area quickly to stop more harm and start checks.
Wase Local Government Chairman Hamisu Anani called the timing especially painful.
Many families observe Ramadan right now, fasting and praying, yet they face sudden grief instead.
“These young men supported homes,” Anani said. “We need help from state and federal leaders for the families left behind.”
Officials sealed the site so investigators can figure out exactly why the gas gathered without warning.
Poor ventilation often turns underground work deadly in Nigeria’s artisanal mines, and this tragedy spotlights the urgent need for better rules and safety gear.
Community members now gather to bury their dead while calls grow louder for real protections.
Families wait for answers—and for support—as Plateau grieves another heavy loss in its mining fields.
