The tragedy in Saint Academy and Gov Mutfwang’s Respond to Building Collapse

By Lawrence Zongo, Jos

The Plateau State Government is grappling with a heartbreaking incident following the tragic collapse of a building at Saint Academy Jos on July 12, 2024. The disaster has claimed 22 lives and left 132 individuals hospitalized. Emergency responders are diligently conducting search and rescue operations at the site.

Immediate Response and Rescue Efforts

Emergency services, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the Red Cross, security agencies, and healthcare professionals, swiftly mobilized to the scene. As of 6:00 PM, 154 people have been rescued from the debris, with 22 confirmed deceased.

The injured, comprising both students and staff, are receiving medical care at various hospitals in Jos. Here’s a breakdown of hospital admissions and fatalities:

Plateau State Specialist Hospital (PSSH): 39 hospitalized, 3 deaths
Our Lady of Apostles (OLA) Hospital: 32 hospitalized, 5 deaths
– Bingham University Teaching Hospital: 55 hospitalized, 14 deaths
– Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH):6 hospitalized, no deaths

Government’s Immediate Actions

The Plateau State Government promptly activated its emergency response protocols. In a show of solidarity and swift action, Governor Barrister Mutfwang directed all major hospitals in Jos to prioritize treatment for the collapse victims, regardless of their documentation or ability to pay.

Hon. Musa Ibrahim Ashoms, the Plateau State Commissioner of Information and Communication, stated, “On behalf of the Plateau State Government, our hearts ache for the families who have lost loved ones in this tragedy. We extend our deepest sympathies and offer our unwavering support during this incredibly difficult time.”

Safety Measures and Ongoing Investigation

Emphasizing the critical importance of safety in building construction, the government cited Executive Order 003, urging all schools and facility owners with structural concerns to close their premises immediately. The Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) has been tasked with conducting inspections to prevent future incidents.

A thorough investigation into the cause of the collapse is currently underway. The government is committed to ensuring the best possible medical care for the injured and vows to determine the root cause of the collapse to prevent a recurrence.

Public Assurance

The government assures the public that the safety and well-being of its citizens, especially children, remain a top priority. Schools are urged to strictly adhere to safety regulations and obtain necessary clearances from the JMDB before any construction activities.

This tragic incident underscores the necessity of stringent safety standards and vigilant oversight in construction practices. The Plateau State Government is dedicated to supporting the affected families and ensuring such a calamity does not happen again.