At least 37 miners have reportedly died from carbon monoxide exposure while working at an underground mine in Zurak, Wase Local Government Area, Plateau State.
The tragedy has also left 25 miners fighting for their lives in hospital after inhaling the poisonous gas.
A source familiar with the incident said the deaths were linked to prolonged exposure to carbon monoxide that had built up in poorly ventilated tunnels where the miners were carrying out their work.
Most of the victims were young men believed to be between 20 and 35 years old, recruited by a mining company to work daily.
According to the source, the toxic fumes originated from an engine used to power underground equipment adding that the gas leaked and accumulated in the confined shafts without adequate ventilation, creating a deadly environment.
“The carbon monoxide from the engine gathered inside the tunnel overnight,” the source said. “When the miners resumed work, they unknowingly inhaled the fumes, and many collapsed almost immediately.”
Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of panic as workers slumped inside the shafts, prompting desperate rescue efforts by colleagues and emergency responders.
Several miners were reportedly pulled out unconscious, while others displayed severe respiratory distress.
Health officials confirmed that some of the victims remain in critical condition. “We are doing everything possible to stabilise those affected,” a medical worker involved in the response said.
Meanwhile, a police source said the mining site has been secured to prevent further exposure and to enable a full investigation.
“The area has been cordoned off, and safety protocols have been activated,” the source said, adding that investigators are working to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the gas buildup.
