A tragic incident shook Jos, the capital of Plateau State, on Friday morning when Saints Academy, a secondary school, collapsed during ongoing third term examinations, claiming the lives of 22 individuals and injuring 132 others.
The casualty figures were confirmed by the state Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon Musa Ashom, in a late-night statement on Friday, July 12. In response to the disaster, the government invoked Executive Order 003, urging immediate closure of schools and other facilities with structural concerns. The Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) was tasked with conducting thorough inspections to prevent future tragedies.
Efforts are underway to provide aid and support to those affected, while investigations into the cause of the collapse continue.
Here are the details from the statement:
"As of 6:00 pm Friday evening, 154 people were rescued from the debris. Sadly, 22 individuals have been confirmed deceased. Injured students and staff are receiving medical treatment at various hospitals across Jos. At Plateau State Specialist Hospital (PSSH), 39 are hospitalized with 3 fatalities. Our Lady of Apostles (OLA) Hospital reports 32 hospitalized with 5 deaths. Bingham University Teaching Hospital has 55 hospitalized with 14 deaths. Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) has 6 hospitalized with no fatalities. Totaling 132 hospitalized and 22 deaths, with a total of 154 victims.
"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 have been collaborating in search, rescue, and medical care efforts.
"To ensure timely medical attention, all major hospitals in Jos have been directed to prioritize treatment for victims, regardless of documentation or payment. Governor Barrister Mutfwang has instructed these hospitals to accommodate all affected by the collapse. The government stresses the importance of adhering to safety standards in building construction.
"A comprehensive investigation into the collapse's cause is underway. On behalf of the Plateau State Government, we extend heartfelt condolences to the families who lost loved ones in this tragedy. We offer our unwavering support during this incredibly difficult time. Ensuring the best medical care for the injured is our priority, and we are committed to a thorough investigation to determine the collapse's cause. The safety and well-being of our citizens, especially our children, remain paramount. We urge all schools to strictly adhere to safety regulations and obtain necessary clearances from the JMDB before any construction."
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