The Ebonyi State Government has launched an investigation into the collapse of a mining pit at Ihietutu village in Ishiagu community, Ivo Local Government Area, which claimed two lives and left three others injured.
The Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Chidi Onyia, disclosed this on Friday during a visit to the site alongside federal mining officers and security agencies.
The incident, which occurred penultimate Friday, had initially been blamed on alleged negligence by pit operator, Greenfield Metals Ltd.
However, Onyia said preliminary findings suggested the collapse was the result of 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,” the commissioner stated.
“If we find recklessness, we will act accordingly. But if it is a natural disaster, we must accept it as such.”
He expressed condolences to the bereaved families, stressing that the site was not under the control of illegal miners as being speculated.
Onyia also urged the public to avoid spreading false claims that could deepen the grief of affected families.
A community leader and Chairman of the Ihetutu Development Union Board of Trustees, Prince Fabian Chukwu, defended the company, noting that it had contributed positively 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,” he said.
Greenfield Metals Ltd. has since suspended operations at the site pending the outcome of ongoing investigations by regulatory agencies, including the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals, the police, DSS, and the NSCDC.