By Micah Jonah, February 19, 2026
No fewer than 37 persons have reportedly lost their lives – following a carbon monoxide poisoning incident at an illegal mining site in Kampani community, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The tragic incident, which occurred on Wednesday morning, also left at least 25 others hospitalised after inhaling toxic fumes believed to have emanated from a dormant lead mine in the area.
Security sources disclosed that local villagers had reportedly entered the abandoned mining tunnel in search of minerals, unaware of the presence of lethal gases trapped within the site. The victims were said to have been overcome by carbon monoxide fumes shortly after gaining access to the tunnel.
Officials of the Plateau State Government confirmed the development, stating that several persons were feared dead, while others were receiving treatment at medical facilities within the locality. However, authorities were yet to provide a definitive casualty figure as rescue and recovery efforts continued.
Security personnel have since cordoned off the affected mining site to prevent further access and possible casualties.
Reacting to the incident, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, said preliminary findings indicated that the victims were exposed to toxic emissions while attempting to extract mineral deposits from the abandoned shaft. He warned against unauthorized mining activities, stressed the dangers associated with unregulated operations.
The Federal Government has ordered an immediate suspension of mining activities in communities surrounding the affected area pending the outcome of a comprehensive investigation into the tragedy.
Plateau State, with its capital in Jos, has a long history of mining – dating back to the colonial era and was once renowned for its tin deposits. However, illegal and artisanal mining activities have continued to pose significant safety and environmental challenges across the state and other parts of the country.
Mining accidents remain a recurring issue in Nigeria’s extractive sector, particularly in sites lacking regulatory oversight and basic safety standards. Observers say the latest incident once again underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of mining regulations and improved safety awareness in host communities.
