Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has ordered the closure of Saints Academy in Jos, following its collapse on Friday, July 12. The incident tragically resulted in 22 fatalities and left 154 others injured among its 284 secondary students and 145 primary pupils.
State Commissioner for Information, Musa Ashoms, confirmed the closure in a statement on Saturday. Governor Mutfwang issued the order during his visit to the collapse site in the Busa Buji community. Additionally, he directed the arrest of artisanal miners operating near residential areas.
The governor expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and assured that the state government would cover the medical expenses for the injured students. Following the incident, the state government declared a three-day mourning period.
The statement read in part: “In response to the tragic loss of lives and injuries sustained by teachers and students of Saints Academy Jos, Governor Caleb Mutfwang has declared a three-day period of mourning from July 13 to July 15, 2024. During this time, all flags will be flown at half-mast to honor the victims.
“Governor Mutfwang extends his heartfelt condolences to the families affected by this devastating incident and urges citizens to strictly follow building codes to prevent such tragedies. He emphasizes the need for developers and property owners to submit their building plans to the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) for verification and revalidation, as part of the enforcement of Executive Order 003.
“We offer our deepest sympathies and unwavering support to those affected during this incredibly difficult time. We are dedicated to providing the best possible medical care for the injured and will conduct a thorough 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 comply with safety regulations and secure the necessary approvals from the JMDB before beginning any construction projects.
“Governor Mutfwang also extends his deepest gratitude to the people of Plateau State for their tremendous support and solidarity in the wake of this tragedy. He thanks the first responders for their swift action and commends the many citizens who donated blood and other resources to aid the injured.”
As of the latest updates, out of the 154 injured individuals, 74 have been treated and discharged. The current hospitalization figures are:
- Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH): 6
- Plateau State Specialist Hospital (PSSH): 6
- Bingham University Teaching Hospital (BhUTH): 14
- Our Lady of Apostles Hospital (OLA): 32
A total of 74 individuals have been discharged.
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