Violence, Mining Tragedy, and Media Loss Mark Turbulent Day in Plateau State

JOS, Nigeria – Plateau State was gripped by a series of deadly incidents on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2026, as four people died in a mining pit collapse, gunmen ambushed a security convoy killing four others, and the journalism community mourned the death of a prominent radio correspondent – underscoring the persistent security and safety challenges facing the north-central Nigerian state.

Mining Pit Collapse Claims Four Lives

Four people died after a sand excavation pit collapsed in a Plateau State community, according to Premium Times. A military spokesperson identified as Mr. Makama said troops responded to a report of the collapse involving suspected illegal miners along a river in the community. The incident highlights the ongoing dangers posed by unregulated and illegal mining activities across the state, where such operations frequently proceed without adequate safety measures or oversight.

Security Convoy Ambushed by Gunmen

In a separate and equally deadly incident, gunmen ambushed a security convoy in Plateau State, killing four people, Premium Times reported. Dalyop Mwantiri, president of the Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM), said he was travelling with the convoy of the security team when the attack occurred. The ambush raises fresh concerns about the safety of security personnel and civilians operating in volatile areas of the state, where armed attacks have remained a persistent threat to communities.

RFI Correspondent Dies in Jos

Adding to a somber day for the state, veteran Radio France Internationale (RFI) correspondent Tasi'u Zakari died on Tuesday morning at Sauki Hospital, located behind the Plateau State House of Assembly in Jos, according to Premium Times. His passing drew tributes from prominent figures, including former Nasarawa State Governor Tanko Al-makura, among others who mourned the loss of the experienced journalist. Zakari's death represents a significant loss for media coverage of north-central Nigeria, a region where credible, on-the-ground reporting remains critically important.

A State Under Strain

The convergence of these three incidents within a single day paints a stark picture of the multifaceted challenges confronting Plateau State authorities. From illegal mining operations that endanger lives to armed attacks on security convoys, residents and officials alike face mounting pressures. The state's security apparatus will likely face scrutiny over its capacity to respond to simultaneous crises across different fronts.

*This article is based solely on reporting by Premium Times Nigeria, published Sept. 23, 2026. EME will continue to monitor developments as more details emerge from Plateau State authorities.*