On February 18, a tragic explosion in a lead mine located in Plateau State, Nigeria, resulted in at least 38 fatalities. The incident occurred during the morning hours when miners were working inside the Kampanin Zurak mine. Reports indicate that the miners were poisoned by carbon monoxide due to a gas leak that rendered the underground tunnels poorly ventilated. An additional 27 individuals were urgently transported to hospitals for medical treatment.

The explosion happened between 7:30 AM and 8:00 AM local time, causing a significant shockwave that was felt in nearby mining areas, prompting other miners to rush to the scene. According to a confidential report reviewed by the AFP, many of the victims were young adults aged between 20 and 35 years. This incident highlights the dangerous conditions present in mining operations in Nigeria, particularly in regions where safety measures may be inadequate.

The situation in Plateau State reflects broader issues within the mining industry in Nigeria, where inadequate safety protocols and emergency response systems have led to similar tragedies in the past. With the urgent need for reform and stricter enforcement of safety regulations, this incident may spur debate within the government and among pressure groups advocating for miners' rights and safety improvements.