• 37 miners died from carbon monoxide poisoning in Plateau state, Nigeria.
• 26 others were hospitalized due to the toxic gas leak at an illegal mining site.
• The incident occurred in the Kampani community during early morning hours.

At least 37 miners died from carbon monoxide poisoning following a toxic gas leak in a mining site located in the Kampani community of Wase in Plateau state, Nigeria. The incident, reported to have occurred early on Tuesday, also led to the hospitalization of 26 others, according to police reports and statements from local officials. Preliminary investigations suggest that the miners inhaled hazardous gases, including lead oxide and other toxic emissions, while working underground, resulting in tragic fatalities, according to Reuters and Al Jazeera.

The miners reportedly continued their labor unaware of the dangers posed by toxic emissions. The Nigerian government imposed a closure on the mining site and has initiated a broader investigation into the accident, as many illegal mining operations in the region lack proper safety protocols and oversight, as highlighted by India Times and Africa News.

Reports indicate that the Plateau State area is historically a center for mining, yet recent activities have slowed, raising concerns about safety following similar incidents such as an accident last year in Zamfara State that claimed multiple lives. The continuous cycle of mining accidents underscores the urgent need for stricter safety regulations and oversight in the sector, according to Al Jazeera, Reuters, and India Times.