By Nkechinyere Ewa-Opkara
The Ebonyi State Government has visited Greenfield Metals Ltd., operators of the Ihietutu mining site in Ishiagu, Ivo Local Government Area, where a mining pit collapsed last Friday, claiming the lives of two workers.
Hon. Chidi Onyia Emmanuel, Commissioner for Solid Minerals, led the inspection team on Wednesday alongside federal mines officers and security agencies.
He debunked reports that the site was parcelled out to illegal miners, insisting that Greenfield Metals operates with a valid mining license.
“We are here because of the unfortunate incident that claimed two lives. Mining, like many industries worldwide, comes with hazards. From our findings, this was a natural occurrence and not a result of negligence,” he said, while commiserating with the bereaved families.
He stressed that investigations were ongoing but assured that all regulatory bodies, including the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals, police, DSS, and Civil Defence, were involved to ensure transparency. “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 appealed for responsible reporting, urging the public not to worsen the grief of families with false claims. He emphasised that Ebonyi State does not encourage illegal mining and fully respects licenses issued by the federal government.
Mr. Henry Ahanotu, CEO of Greenfield Metals Ltd., on his part described the incident as “deeply unfortunate,” noting that safety remains a top priority at the site.
“We maintain strict health, safety and environmental standards, and our facilities are inspected regularly. This incident came as a shock, but we are already investigating the root cause to prevent a recurrence,” he said.
He further explained that the company has a cordial relationship with host communities, employing locals and supporting development projects. “We have built roads, provided scholarships, and created jobs. We see the community as partners, not outsiders,” Ahanotu added.
Community leaders who joined the government officials also defended the company, commending its contributions to local development. Prince Fabian Chukwu, Board of Trustees chairman, Ihietutu Development Union, said,
“The company has been number one in empowerment. 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.”
Correspondent who visited the site observed that Greenfield Metals has since suspended operations at the site pending the outcome of investigations, while pledging continued support to the victims’ families.//