The death toll from the collapse of a school building in Jos, Plateau State, has increased to 22. The incident occurred at Saint Academy in the Busa Buji community, Jos North LGA, on Friday.
Initially, the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) reported 17 deaths. However, the state Commissioner for Information, Musa Ashoms, later confirmed that the number had risen to 22. Additionally, 154 people sustained injuries and are receiving treatment in various hospitals across the state.
Ashoms shared, “The Plateau State Government expresses its deepest condolences following the tragic building collapse at Saint Academy Jos on July 12, 2024. The collapse resulted in 154 fatalities and injuries. Emergency responders are currently at the scene conducting search and rescue operations.”
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As of 6 PM on Friday, 154 people had been rescued from the rubble. The breakdown of hospital admissions and fatalities is as follows:
- Plateau State Specialist Hospital: 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, 0 deaths
The total is 132 hospitalized and 22 deaths, making up 154 victims.
Ashoms mentioned that rescue operations are still ongoing to save those trapped under the debris. He added that hospitals have been directed to prioritize the treatment of the victims.
“The Plateau State Government activated emergency response protocols immediately upon notification of the incident. Emergency services, including the National Emergency Management Agency, State Emergency Management Agency, Red Cross, security agencies, and healthcare professionals, have been working collaboratively in search, rescue, and resuscitation efforts,” Ashoms said.
Governor Mutfwang has ordered all major hospitals in Jos to provide immediate care to the victims, regardless of documentation or payment status. He emphasized the importance of adhering to safety standards in building construction to prevent future tragedies.
Ashoms added, “Governor Mutfwang has specifically instructed these hospitals to accommodate all those affected by the collapse. He emphasized the importance of adhering to established safety standards in building construction. Citing Executive Order 003, he urged schools and other facility owners with structural concerns to close their facilities immediately. The Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) will conduct inspections to prevent similar incidents in the future.”
The government has promised a thorough investigation into the cause of the collapse. “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,” Ashoms stated.