A devastating incident occurred in Jos, the capital of Plateau State, on Friday morning when Saints Academy, a secondary school, collapsed, resulting in the deaths of 22 victims and injuries to 132 others. The collapse happened while students were in the midst of their third-term examinations.
The state Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon Musa Ashom, confirmed the casualty figures in a statement released late on Friday, July 12.
In response to the tragedy, the government invoked Executive Order 003, urging schools and other facility owners with structural concerns to close their facilities immediately. The Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) has been tasked with conducting inspections to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Authorities are continuing their efforts to provide aid and support to those affected by this tragic event, as investigations into the cause of the collapse continue.
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The statement read:
“Current Situation as of 6:00 pm Friday evening, 154 people have been rescued from the debris. Sadly, 22 individuals have been confirmed deceased.
Injured students and staff are receiving medical treatment at various hospitals across Jos. Breakdown of Hospital admissions and fatalities shows in Plateau State Specialist Hospital (PSSH) 39 hospitalized and 3 deaths.
In Our Lady of Apostles (OLA) Hospital 32 hospitalized and 5 deaths. From Bingham University Teaching Hospital 55 hospitalized and 14 deaths.
In Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) 6 hospitalized and 0 deaths. Total: 132 hospitalized and 22 deaths, a grand total of 154 victims.
Plateau State Government activated emergency response protocols immediately upon notification of the incident. Emergency services, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Red Cross, security agencies, and Healthcare professionals who have been working collaboratively in search, rescue, and resuscitation efforts.
To ensure prompt medical attention, the government has directed all major hospitals in Jos to prioritize treatment of the victims, regardless of documentation or payment.
The Governor, Barrister Mutfwang, has specifically instructed these hospitals to accommodate all those affected by the collapse. The government emphasizes the importance of adhering to established safety standards in building construction.
A thorough investigation into the cause of the collapse is underway. On behalf of the Plateau State Government, our hearts ache for the families who have lost loved ones in this terrible tragedy.
We extend our deepest sympathies and offer our unwavering support during this incredibly difficult time. We are committed to ensuring the best possible medical care for the injured and will conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause of the collapse.
The safety and well-being of our citizens, especially our children, is our top priority. We urge all schools to strictly adhere to safety regulations and obtain necessary clearances from the JMDB before construction.”