Ebonyi Government Closes Palladium Mining After Youth Killings

The Ebonyi State Government has sealed Palladium Mining Company, also known as Ambertone Logistics Ltd, after two youths, Chibuike Elema, 18, and Obinna Gideon Akandu, 20, were allegedly killed by military personnel in Ihetutu, Ivo Local Government Area. The incident occurred on Sunday when the victims were reportedly shot after refusing demands for money from soldiers.

Governor Francis Nwifuru condemned the killings, describing them as tragic, and urged the community to remain calm. He was represented by Chief Chinedum Nkah, the Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development, who stated that a full investigation is underway.

Eyewitness accounts suggest that the soldiers shot the youths in the head after they claimed they had no money. The victims' families have expressed their grief, with Mr Donatus Okoro recounting that his son was called to work at the mining site before the incident.

The local government chairman, Chief Michael Anyim, called for peace and assured that justice would be pursued in collaboration with the Nigerian Army.