Tragedy struck in Plateau State as a school building collapsed, resulting in the death of 22 people and injuries to 132 others.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday at the Local Education Authority (LEA) Primary School in Jos North Local Government Area.
Rescue operations were promptly initiated, with emergency response teams working tirelessly to extricate victims from the rubble.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud rumble before the building crumbled to the ground. “It was like an earthquake.
The building just collapsed all of a sudden,” said Musa Abubakar, a nearby resident. Panic ensued as parents rushed to the scene, desperately searching for their children amidst the debris.
The chaotic scene was filled with cries and frantic efforts to locate survivors.
Medical personnel were swiftly deployed to the site, providing immediate care to the injured.
Many victims were transported to nearby hospitals, where doctors and nurses struggled to manage the influx of patients.
The Plateau State government has called for blood donations and medical supplies to support the overwhelmed healthcare facilities.
“We are doing everything possible to ensure the injured receive the best care,” said the Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nimkong Ndam.
Preliminary investigations suggest that structural deficiencies may have contributed to the collapse.
The school building, reportedly constructed several decades ago, had shown signs of wear and tear.
Experts have raised concerns over the quality of materials used in the construction and the lack of regular maintenance.
“This tragedy highlights the urgent need for stringent building regulations and regular inspections to prevent such disasters,” commented Engr.
Peter Gyang, a local civil engineer.
The Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong, visited the site to assess the situation and express his condolences to the bereaved families.
He assured them that a thorough investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the collapse and hold those responsible accountable.
“This is a heartbreaking incident, and we must ensure that it never happens again,” Lalong stated.
He also announced the formation of a task force to inspect other school buildings in the state.
Community leaders have also voiced their concerns, urging the government to prioritize the safety of educational infrastructures. “Our children’s lives are precious.
We cannot afford to neglect their safety in schools,” said Chief David Dogara, a community elder. Parents and guardians echoed these sentiments, calling for immediate action to address the dangers posed by dilapidated buildings.
As rescue operations continue, the focus remains on recovering any remaining survivors and providing support to the affected families.
The Plateau State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has set up a temporary shelter for those displaced by the collapse.
The agency has also appealed to philanthropists and non-governmental organizations for assistance in rehabilitating the victims and rebuilding the school.
The devastating incident has cast a somber mood over the community, highlighting the critical need for enhanced safety measures in schools across the region.
