Ebonyi govt lifts suspension on Ambertone as Ishiagu Community buries slain youths

By Chiamaka Ekwuwe The Ebonyi State Government has lifted the temporary suspension on mining operations at the Ambertone Logistics Limited facility, operated by Zotmann Mining Limited, in Ihetutu community, Ishiagu, Ivo Local Government Area, following consultations with relevant stakeholders and the burial of two youths who died in a shooting incident in the area.

The resumption of operations on Wednesday followed days of engagements involving the state government, representatives of the mining company, bereaved families and community stakeholders aimed at restoring peace and normalcy. The development comes after the deaths of Chibuike Elema, 18, and Obinna Gideon Akandu, 20, in a shooting incident reportedly involving a military officer on Sunday, October 18, 2026.

The precise circumstances surrounding the incident, including the events leading to the shooting and the responsibility of the personnel involved, remain subject to clarification by the appropriate authorities. Available accounts indicate that the incident occurred approximately three kilometres from the company’s operational facility, reportedly near another mining concession.

Following the incident, tensions reportedly escalated in the community, with some youths allegedly attacking the mining company’s facility, resulting in damage to vehicles, equipment, offices and other property. In response to the developments and concerns over public safety, the Ebonyi State Government ordered a temporary suspension of mining activities at the affected facility to prevent further escalation and facilitate peace-building efforts.

Following consultations and reconciliation engagements, the government subsequently announced the lifting of the suspension, allowing operations to resume. Ambertone, Zotmann Clarify Company Identity The incident also generated conflicting reports concerning the identity of the mining company operating the affected facility. While some initial reports associated the incident with Palladium Mining Company, subsequent clarification from company representatives identified Ambertone Logistics Limited as the company whose facility was affected by the unrest.

Representatives further clarified that Palladium Mining Company operates a separate facility in the community and is distinct from Ambertone Logistics Limited and its operational partner, Zotmann Mining Limited. The clarification was issued to address confusion arising from reports that appeared to have linked Palladium Mining Company to the incident.

Representatives of Ambertone and Zotmann also stated that neither company authorised the shooting, maintaining that the incident occurred outside their operational premises. The circumstances surrounding the shooting and any possible responsibility of individuals involved remain separate matters requiring appropriate investigation. Company’s Condolence Visit Paves Way for Reconciliation As part of efforts to promote reconciliation and rebuild confidence, representatives of Ambertone Logistics Limited visited the families of the two deceased youths to express condolences.

The visit provided an opportunity for the families to communicate their concerns and for the company to express sympathy over the loss of the young men. Leading the delegation, Henry Onyeazor expressed sadness over the deaths, describing the incident as unfortunate and deeply regrettable. He conveyed the condolences of the company’s management and staff to the affected families, acknowledging the pain associated with losing loved ones at such young ages.

Onyeazor said the visit was intended to demonstrate the company’s sympathy and commitment to maintaining peaceful relations with its host community. He also recalled the relationship between the company and Ihetutu community, noting that its operations had provided employment and economic opportunities for residents. Onyeazor appealed to community members to sustain peaceful engagement and avoid allowing the incident to undermine existing relationships.

He also denied allegations that the company’s management instructed military personnel to shoot the youths. He maintained that the company had no interest in instigating violence against its host community and encouraged residents to allow the appropriate authorities to establish the facts surrounding the incident. Bereaved Family Appreciates Company’s Support Responding on behalf of the family of the late Chibuike Elema, his uncle, Elder Ukachukwu Josel Elema, appreciated the company representatives for visiting the family during its period of mourning.

He described the death of his nephew as painful, particularly given his young age and the future that lay ahead of him. He said: “On behalf of my family, I sincerely appreciate the management of the company and everyone who has come here today to sympathise with us during this difficult period. “Death is a painful experience, particularly when it involves a young person whose future holds so much promise.

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