Update: 22 die in the tragic school building collapse in jos

By: Bodunrin Kayode

It has been confirmed that as at 6 pm this evening, at least 22 souls had perished under the weight of the concrete of the two storey school building that collapsed on their heads today.

The two storey school building had collapsed this morning around 8.30 am leaving many students and teachers trapped with some of them feared dead.

The affected school Saint Academy located at the Busa Buji community in Jos North council Area of the state was also said to be located beside a stream which obviously dealt with its foundation while they were in session writing exams.

Many of the students trapped were said to be doing their third term examinations supervised by their teachers when the unfortunate tragedy occurred on them inside their classes.

The Plateau State Government while confirming the tragedy expressed its deepest condolences following the tragic building collapse of the Saint Academy Jos today.

A release signed by the Commissioner of information Musa Ashoms noted that “The collapse resulted in 154 fatalities and injuries adding that emergency responders are currently at the scene conducting search and rescue operations.

Confirmation: “As of 6:00 pm, 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:

“Plateau State Specialist Hospital (PSSH) 39 hospitalized and three deaths
Our Lady of Apostles (OLA) Hospital 32 hospitalized and five deaths. Bingham University Teaching Hospital, 55 hospitalized and 14 deaths. Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) six hospitalized and 0 deaths. Total: 132 hospitalized and 22 deaths, a grand total of 154 victims.” Accounted for so far said Musa.

Government Response:

” The 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.”

Safety Measures and Investigation

“The government emphasizes the importance of adhering to established safety standards in building construction. Citing Executive Order 003, the government urges 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.
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”. Said Musa Ashoms, the State Commissioner of Information and Communication.

Update: 22 die in the tragic school building collapse in jos