The Ebonyi State Government has launched an investigation into the collapse of a mining pit at Ihietutu in Ishiagu, Ivo Local Government Area, which claimed two lives and left three others injured last Friday.
Chidi Onyia, the Commissioner for Solid Minerals, disclosed this during a fact-finding visit to the site alongside federal mines officers and security agencies.
Onyia addressed speculations of negligence by Greenfield Metals Ltd., the company operating the site, clarifying that preliminary findings suggest the incident was a natural occurrence.
“Mining, like many industries worldwide, comes with hazards. From our preliminary findings, this was a natural occurrence and not a result of negligence,” Onyia said.
He noted that investigations are ongoing, involving the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals, the police, the Department of State Services, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
“If we find recklessness, we will act accordingly. But if it is a natural disaster, we must accept it as such,” he added.
The commissioner extended condolences to the bereaved families and dismissed reports alleging illegal mining activities, stressing that the state respects federal mining licenses and discourages unlawful operations.
Community leader Fabian Chukwu, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Ihietutu Development Union, also expressed support for Greenfield Metals Ltd., highlighting the company’s contributions to the area, including road construction and community benefits.
Operations at the site have been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.
