The Federal Government has set up an 18-member high-level committee to investigate the gas poisoning incident at Zurak Mines in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The tragedy, which occurred on February 18 at a mining site in Kampani Zurak, claimed 37 lives, while 25 others were hospitalised following exposure to toxic gaseous emissions.

In response, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, ordered the immediate closure of the affected mining site (Mining Licence 11810), operated by Solid Unit Nigeria Limited, pending the outcome of investigations.

At the inauguration of the panel, Alake tasked members with examining the technical, environmental, regulatory, and community-related factors surrounding the incident, and to submit their findings within 21 days. His remarks were delivered by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr Faruk Yabo.

The minister described the incident as both tragic and instructive, calling it a wake-up call for stricter compliance with global mining safety standards. He noted that while such occurrences are rare, a thorough investigation is necessary to uncover both immediate and underlying causes.

Preliminary findings, he said, point to lapses in safety compliance, weak regulatory oversight, operator negligence, and the involvement of local youths within the mining lease area.

Alake further directed the panel to ensure transparency in its work and provide clear recommendations to prevent a recurrence.

"In view of the seriousness of this incident and the need to safeguard lives and preserve the integrity of the investigation, I wish to formally restate that Solid Unit Mining Company has been placed on immediate suspension. This covers all mining operations at ML 11810 and any other associated site," he said.

He added that the suspension would remain in effect until investigations are concluded and recommendations implemented, stressing the government's zero tolerance for negligence and its commitment to safe mining practices.

"The committee is to provide a detailed technical description of the incident, including gaseous emissions, geological conditions, ventilation status and any prior occurrences within the lease area. Identify technical experts engaged by the company and their role in supervision and determine minerals mined under ML 11810, transport methods and buyers."

He added that the panel would also assess compliance with royalty payments and other statutory obligations. Other responsibilities include reviewing security challenges in the Wase/Zurak axis, proposing regulatory safeguards for community ceding arrangements, and recommending improved funding mechanisms for regulatory agencies.

The committee will also evaluate community relations, environmental compliance, and other statutory requirements, with administrative and technical support from the ministry.

Earlier, Permanent Secretary Faruk Yabo said the Zurak incident highlights the urgent need to strengthen safety and security frameworks at mining sites. He noted that the committee's inauguration reflects the Federal Government's commitment to protecting lives, ensuring accountability, and promoting sustainable mining practices.

According to him, the panel is expected to deliver clear, evidence-based findings and actionable recommendations to prevent future tragedies.

The committee is chaired by Yabo and co-chaired by Mr Peter Gwom, Plateau State's Commissioner for Environment, Climate Change and Mineral Development. Its membership also includes the Emir of Wase, the Director-General of the Mining Cadastre Office, the Chairman of Wase Local Government Council, and the General Officer Commanding 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, among others.