WASE, Plateau — A horrific industrial catastrophe has claimed the lives of at least 37 miners and left 26 others fighting for their lives after a massive toxic gas leak at a mining site in Zurak, Wase Local Government Area.
The tragedy, which struck on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, has forced the Federal Government into an emergency shutdown of the facility. It stands as one of the deadliest mining disasters in Nigeria’s history, pulling back the curtain on the “death trap” conditions facing laborers in the nation’s mineral-rich heartlands.
The “Silent Killer” at Mining Lease 11810
The disaster unfolded within the perimeter of Mining Lease 11810, operated by Solid Unit Nigeria Limited and reportedly owned by the prominent businessman Abdullahi Adamu Usman (widely known as Dan-China).
Survivors described a terrifying scene as an invisible, pungent gas suddenly flooded the deep pits. Dozens of miners reportedly collapsed where they stood, while others suffered agonizing respiratory failure. Doctors at the Wase General Hospital confirmed on Thursday that the 26 survivors are being treated for acute chemical poisoning, with several still in critical condition.
Alake Orders Immediate Seal-Off
Reacting to the body count on Thursday morning, February 19, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, directed the immediate closure of the site.
“The loss of 37 lives is a national tragedy that strikes at the heart of our mining reforms,” the Minister stated. “All operations under this license are suspended indefinitely. We are launching a forensic investigation into the safety protocols—or lack thereof—at Solid Unit Nigeria Limited.”
“Blood on the Gold”—Nigerians Slap Tinubu with Fury
As the news of the 37 deaths rippled across the country, Nigerians took to the streets and social media to vent their anger at the President Bola Tinubu administration, accusing it of “criminal negligence” in the oversight of the mining sector.
- “Prioritizing Royalties Over Souls”: Critics have blasted the Ministry for its aggressive drive to collect mining fees and royalties while allegedly ignoring safety inspections. “37 people poisoned like rats in a licensed mine. This is what ‘Renewed Hope’ looks like for the poor man in Wase,” one analyst in Jos noted. “They want the minerals, but they don’t want the miners to live.”
- “The Luxury Disparity”: Many Nigerians pointed out the biting irony of a government that can find ₦66 billion for luxury SUVs but cannot provide basic gas detectors or protective gear for miners. “The President is asking for forgiveness for his ‘sins’ before Ramadan, but he should start by repenting for the blood of these 37 Nigerians,” a viral post on X (formerly Twitter) read.
- “Licensed to Kill”:Â Citizens expressed shock that such a high-casualty event occurred at a “legal” site. “If this is how a licensed company operates, then the government is essentially licensing death traps,” another resident remarked.
A Region Under the Shadow of Death
The Wase axis has long been a flashpoint for banditry and illegal mining, but this industrial gas leak has added a new dimension of horror to the community.
As of midday Thursday, the management of Solid Unit Nigeria Limited has remained silent, offering no condolences or explanations for the leak. For the families of the 37 deceased, the “sealed” sign on the gate offers little comfort for the breadwinners they will never see again.
