FG inaugurates probe panel on deadly mine gas leak, vows strict accountability

The Federal Government has inaugurated a high-level investigation committee to probe the fatal gas poisoning incident at a mining site in Zurak, with authorities signalling tougher enforcement and zero tolerance for safety lapses in the sector.

Businessday recalls that on February 18, 2026, a toxic gas leak, suspected to be carbon monoxide or sulphur dioxide, led to the deaths of 37 miners, leaving over 20 wounded in an abandoned lead mine in Kampani Zurak, Wase LGA, Plateau State.

Dele Alake, minister of Solid Minerals Development, represented by Farouk Yusuf Yau, while inaugurating the high-level Investigative Panel in Abuja on Wednesday, described the incident as both ‘tragic and unacceptable’

The minister said the committee is to be chaired by Farouk Yusuf Yau, permanent secretary, Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and co-chaired by Peter Kanang Gwom, commissioner, Environment, Climate Change and Mineral Development.

Other members of the Committee include Simon Nkom, DG, Mining Cadaster Office, Olusegun Ige, DG, Nigerian Geological Survey Agency,  Hamisu Mohammed Anani, chairman, Wase Local Government Area, Plateau State, Muhammadu Sambo Haruna, emir, Wase LGA., GOC 3 Division, commissioner of Police Plateau state, state director, DSS, state commandant NSCDC, commandant, Mining Marshal, director special duties, Mines Environmental Inspectorate, director Artisanal Small Mining, ASM, Legal and SA to the minister of Solid Minerals Development, Ministry of Solid Minerals Development respectively.

Given a 21-day deadline, the Committee, in its terms of reference, is expected to include a technical assessment of the gas emission, review of ventilation systems, compliance with environmental and financial obligations, and evaluation of relationships between the operator and host communities. Its findings are expected to shape regulatory and policy responses aimed at strengthening safety standards and restoring confidence in Nigeria’s mining sector.

In his remarks, the minister mandated the committee to investigate the February 18 gas leakage, stating that the probe is intended to uncover “the immediate and remote causes” of the disaster and prevent a recurrence.

“As painful as this may be, it should serve as a wake-up call for everyone concerned with the responsibility of ensuring that our minefields are safe and secure in line with global best practices,” he said.

Alake emphasised that the investigation is not merely procedural but central to rebuilding trust in the sector. “A sector plagued by reprehensible accidents is not attractive to any serious investor. It is, in part, a liability,” he stated.

He added that “no amount of economic benefits can justify the avoidable loss of Nigerian lives,” stressing that the government remains committed to enforcing safety and accountability across mining operations.

The minister also announced the immediate suspension of the company’s operations.

“This is not a punitive measure in a narrow sense, but an administrative safety imperative. The company shall remain under suspension until the Ministry is fully satisfied that operations can resume safely in full compliance with applicable laws and regulations,” he said.

According to him, the committee’s work is part of a broader reform push.

“The establishment of this committee is therefore not an isolated response to a crisis, but a demonstration of this government’s zero tolerance to negligence and its commitment to deepening the culture of safety and responsibility in the mining sector,” Alake said.

He assured that the outcome of the probe would be acted upon.

“We will not allow this report to gather dust on the shelves. The Federal Government stands solidly behind this investigation and will act decisively on the recommendations,” he added.

The committee has been given 21 days to submit its report.“You carry on your shoulders the weight of 37 lives lost and the expectations of millions of Nigerians that we will do better in the future,” he said.

Earlier, giving the welcome remarks, the permanent secretary, represented by Frank Udoh, director of special duties, described the incident as deeply troubling and reflective of systemic gaps in safety and oversight.

“The unfortunate events are very painful and underscore the urgent need to strengthen security and safety standards across the sector,” he said.

He noted that the constitution of the committee reflects the government’s resolve to enforce accountability.

“The constitution of this High-Level Committee underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding lives, ensuring accountability, and promoting sustainable mining practices,” Yau stated.

He charged the committee to deliver evidence-based outcomes.“Your task is both critical and timely, to thoroughly investigate not only the immediate causes of this incident, but also the underlying and root factors that may have contributed to it,” he said.

“You are therefore expected to provide clear, evidence-based findings and actionable recommendations. These will be instrumental in preventing future occurrences, improving regulatory compliance, and reinforcing safety protocols within the mining industry.”