In Plateau State:Tragic Collapse of Saint Academy Building At Least 22 Confirmed Dead, Rescue Operations Ongoing

In a devastating incident in central Nigeria, a two-storey school building, Saint Academy, collapsed in the Busa Buji community of Plateau State. The collapse occurred on Friday shortly after students, most of whom were 15 years old or younger, had arrived for classes. According to police spokesman Alfred Alabo, at least 22 students have been confirmed dead. Initially, 154 students were trapped under the rubble, but rescue operations have so far managed to save 132 individuals, who are currently receiving treatment in various hospitals.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) reported that 30 of the rescued individuals remain hospitalized. Rescue efforts, which involved the use of heavy machinery, have now concluded. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes, with crowds gathering around the collapsed building and villagers anxiously watching as rescue workers sifted through the debris. Some were seen weeping and trying to assist, while others comforted grieving parents.

Plateau State Government Response and Investigation

In the immediate aftermath of the collapse, NEMA coordinated a swift deployment of rescue and health workers to the site. Security forces were also present to maintain order and assist with the search and rescue operations. The Plateau State government has mandated that hospitals prioritize treatment for the injured without requiring documentation or payment. This measure aims to ensure that all affected individuals receive prompt and necessary medical attention.

Plateau State’s commissioner for information, Musa Ashoms, attributed the tragedy to the building’s “weak structure and location near a riverbank.” In a statement, the Plateau state government urged schools facing similar structural issues to suspend operations to prevent further incidents. The authorities have initiated an investigation into the collapse to determine the exact causes and to hold those responsible accountable.

Government’s Reaction and Support Measures

Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State expressed profound sorrow over the incident, describing it as a tragic and monumental loss for the Plateau state. In a statement released by Mr. Gyang Bere, the Director of Press and Public Affairs, the governor extended his condolences to the families of the victims, acknowledging the heartbreak and sorrow that the incident has caused.

Governor Mutfwang praised the timely intervention of the search and rescue teams and the community members who assisted in the rescue efforts. He has directed relevant government agencies, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Plateau State Emergency Management Agency, to provide the necessary support to the survivors. “Words cannot fully comfort the grieving families over their immense loss,” Mutfwang stated. “We pray that God will continue to console and uphold them during this difficult period.”

Preventive Measures and Future Safeguards

Highlighting the broader implications of this tragedy, Governor Mutfwang pointed to the recently signed Executive Order 003, aimed at preventing such disasters in the future. This order is part of the Plateau State government’s initiative to ensure compliance with building regulations and maintain the integrity of structures within the state. The governor emphasized that the rationale behind Executive Order 003 is to prevent Jos from deteriorating into a slum and to align with the Greater Jos Master Plan.

Governor Mutfwang reiterated the importance of strict adherence to building codes and regulations to avoid similar incidents. He called on all relevant stakeholders to cooperate in implementing these safety measures to protect the lives and properties of the citizens. “The Executive Order 003 is a step towards safeguarding our citizens from such preventable disasters,” he stated. “We must ensure that building regulations are strictly followed to avoid a repeat of this tragic event.”. ::Recurring Issue of Building Collapses in Nigeria

Building collapses have become alarmingly frequent in Nigeria, with more than a dozen incidents reported over the past two years. Experts and authorities often cite poor enforcement of building regulations, the use of substandard construction materials, and inadequate maintenance as primary factors contributing to these disasters. The Saint Academy collapse is a stark reminder of these ongoing issues.

In 2021, a high-rise building under construction in the upscale Ikoyi district of Lagos collapsed, killing at least 45 people. The following year, a three-storey building in the Ebute-Metta area of Lagos also collapsed, resulting in 10 fatalities. According to research by a South African university, Lagos alone has seen 152 building collapses since 2005. These incidents highlight the urgent need for stringent enforcement of building standards and proactive measures to ensure the safety of structures across the country