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 area. The incident highlights the ongoing dangers posed by unregulated and illegal mining activities across the state, where artisanal and small-scale mining operations frequently operate outside formal safety frameworks.

Security Convoy Ambushed by Gunmen

In a separate and equally deadly incident, gunmen ambushed a security convoy in Plateau State on the same day, killing four people, Premium Times reported. Dalyop Mwantiri, president of the Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM), told the publication that he was travelling with the convoy when the attack occurred. The ambush adds to a pattern of armed violence that has long plagued communities across Plateau State, particularly those in rural and semi-rural areas where security presence remains stretched.

RFI Correspondent Dies in Jos

The day also brought grief to Nigeria's journalism community with the death of Tasi'u Zakari, a correspondent for Radio France Internationale (RFI), according to Premium Times. Zakari died on Tuesday morning at Sauki Hospital, located behind the Plateau State House of Assembly in Jos. His passing drew condolences from prominent figures, including former Nasarawa State Governor Al-makura, among others who mourned the loss of the veteran journalist. RFI is one of the leading international broadcasters covering West and Central Africa, and Zakari's death represents a significant loss to media coverage of the region.

A State Under Strain

The convergence of these three tragedies within a single day paints a sobering picture of the multiple crises confronting Plateau State authorities. From illegal mining operations that endanger lives to armed attacks on security personnel and civilian convoys, the state continues to grapple with complex challenges that demand coordinated responses from both state and federal governments.

As of the time of reporting, Premium Times had not published official government statements addressing the full scope of Tuesday's incidents collectively. Authorities have yet to publicly outline any immediate policy responses to the mining fatalities or the convoy ambush. EME will continue to monitor developments as more information becomes available.

*Sources: Premium Times Nigeria. Some details in this report are limited due to the scope of information available at the time of publication.*