The Plateau State Government has declared itself fully mobilised to tackle the unfolding mining disaster in Kampani Zurak, Wase Local Government Area, following a tragic explosion at a mining site reportedly owned by Solid Unit Nig Ltd.

In an official statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, the government said it received news of the explosion with “deep shock and profound sadness.”

Preliminary reports indicate that about 33 persons were inside the mining tunnel at the time of the blast. While the exact casualty figure is still being verified, many lives are feared lost, and several injured victims are currently receiving treatment in nearby hospitals.

“On behalf of the Government and the good people of Plateau State, we extend heartfelt condolences to the families of those who have lost their loved ones in this unfortunate incident. We share in your grief at this painful moment,” the statement read.

The government said it has activated coordinated emergency responses, working closely with security agencies, emergency responders, and health authorities to stabilise the situation. Efforts are ongoing to secure the affected site, provide urgent medical assistance to survivors, and prevent further loss of life.

Authorities also called on residents of Kampani Zurak and surrounding communities to remain calm and law-abiding, urging the public to refrain from spreading unverified information capable of heightening panic.

In a decisive move, the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, has directed the immediate and total shutdown of all mining activities in the affected area pending further investigations. A high-powered team of experts from the Federal Ministry of Environment is expected to arrive in Wase from Abuja to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the site.

The Plateau State Government further appealed to all relevant federal and state agencies responsible for mining regulation, safety enforcement, and disaster response to urgently intervene and conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion.

It stressed that strict enforcement of mining safety standards must follow to prevent future occurrences, noting that safeguarding lives in mining communities remains a top priority.

“The Government assures the public that no stone will be left unturned in addressing this tragedy and safeguarding lives across mining communities in the state,” the statement concluded.

The incident has once again drawn attention to safety concerns surrounding mining operations in Plateau, with authorities pledging renewed vigilance and coordinated action to forestall similar disasters.