The Ebonyi State Government has launched an investigation into the recent collapse of a mining pit at Ihietutu village in Ishiagu community, Ivo Local Government Area, which claimed the lives of two persons and left three others injured. The State Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Chidi Onyia, disclosed this on Friday during a visit to the site alongside federal mining officers and security agencies.
The tragic incident, which occurred penultimate Friday, was initially blamed on negligence by the pit operator, Greenfield Metals Ltd. However, Onyia said preliminary findings indicated the collapse may have been caused by natural factors rather than operational lapses. “Mining, like many industries worldwide, comes with hazards. From our preliminary findings, this was a natural occurrence and not a result of negligence. Investigation is ongoing by all regulatory bodies, including the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals, the police, DSS, and the NSCDC, to ensure transparency,” he explained.
The commissioner assured that if evidence of recklessness emerged, appropriate action would be taken against those responsible. He also dismissed speculation that the site had been leased to illegal miners, stressing that Ebonyi State does not tolerate unlawful mining activities. “Here, we fully respect licenses issued by the Federal Government,” Onyia said, while urging the public not to compound the grief of victims’ families with false claims.
Community leaders have also spoken in defense of the mining company, highlighting its contributions to local development. Prince Fabian Chukwu, Chairman of the Ihietutu Development Union Board of Trustees, noted that Greenfield Metals had constructed access roads and consistently met its obligations to the community. “They built the road to this site and never delayed in giving the community its due entitlements. That is why we stand by them in this unfortunate incident,” Chukwu stated.
Greenfield Metals Ltd has since suspended operations at the site pending the outcome of investigations. Meanwhile, the Ebonyi State Government has commiserated with the bereaved families and pledged that findings from the probe will determine the next line of action to ensure accountability and safety in mining operations across the state.
