74 Victims Discharged as Plateau Governor Orders Closure of Collapsed School
### 74 Victims Discharged as Plateau Governor Orders Closure of Collapsed School
**13th July 2024**
**By James Abraham**
In a tragic turn of events, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has ordered the immediate closure of Saints Academy in Jos following a catastrophic building collapse on Friday. The incident resulted in the loss of over 22 lives, leaving a community in mourning and raising urgent questions about building safety standards in the region.
The state Commissioner for Information, Musa Ashoms, revealed these details in a somber statement issued on Saturday. Governor Mutfwang's directive came after his visit to the collapse site in the Busa Buji community and his rounds at local hospitals where the injured were receiving treatment.
The governor's response was swift and decisive, reflecting the gravity of the situation. During his visit, he ordered the arrest of artisanal miners operating near residential areas. These miners, whose activities are often unregulated, have been linked to several environmental hazards and structural instabilities in the region. This latest incident underscores the urgent need to address these risks to prevent further tragedies.
### A Community in Mourning
Governor Mutfwang's visit to the affected site and hospitals was not just a political gesture; it was a demonstration of solidarity with the grieving families and the injured. He commiserated with the families of the deceased children and promised that the state government would cover all medical expenses for the injured students. His empathetic approach aimed to provide some relief to those who have suffered immeasurable loss.
In a move to honor the victims, the state government declared a three-day mourning period. From July 13 to July 15, all flags across Plateau State will be flown at half-mast. This period of mourning is not only a time for reflection but also a call to action to ensure such a disaster does not happen again.
### The Governor's Statement
The statement from the governor's office was a comprehensive outline of the government's immediate and future actions. It read in part:
"In response to the tragic loss of lives and injuries sustained by teachers and students of Saints Academy Jos, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, 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 of the school building collapse in Jos.
Governor Mutfwang extends his heartfelt condolences to the families affected by this devastating incident and urges citizens to strictly follow building codes and ethics to prevent such tragedies. He emphasizes the need for all 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."
### The Root Causes
While the immediate response focuses on relief and support, there is an underlying urgency to address the root causes of the collapse. Preliminary investigations suggest that the building's structural integrity was compromised due to substandard construction materials and non-compliance with building regulations. This incident has brought to light the critical need for stringent enforcement of building codes.
Artisanal mining has also been identified as a contributing factor. The unchecked excavation activities destabilize the ground, making it prone to subsidence and collapses. The governor's order to arrest those involved in illegal mining activities near residential areas is a significant step toward mitigating these risks. However, it also highlights the broader issue of regulating mining activities and ensuring they are conducted safely and responsibly.
### Public Response
The public reaction to the tragedy has been one of collective grief and a call for accountability. Many residents have taken to social media and other platforms to express their sorrow and demand stricter enforcement of building regulations. The incident has sparked widespread discussions about the need for transparency and accountability in the construction industry.
Local NGOs and civil society organizations have also weighed in, calling for an independent investigation into the collapse. They argue that systemic corruption and lax enforcement of building standards are major factors contributing to such disasters. These groups are advocating for comprehensive reforms to ensure the safety of all buildings, particularly schools and other public facilities.
### Government's Commitment to Safety
Governor Mutfwang's administration has pledged to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the collapse. This investigation will not only identify the immediate factors but also examine the broader regulatory environment that allowed such a tragedy to occur. The goal is to develop actionable recommendations to prevent future incidents.
The governor's statement continued:
"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."
### The Road Ahead
The tragedy at Saints Academy has brought to the forefront the critical need for regulatory oversight and community engagement in building safety. As the state mourns the loss of innocent lives, there is also a resolve to ensure that such an incident does not recur. The administration's commitment to enforcing building codes and addressing illegal mining activities is a step in the right direction.
However, lasting change will require sustained effort and collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society. Ensuring that all construction projects adhere to established safety standards is not just the responsibility of the government but also of developers, contractors, and the community at large.
### Personal Stories of Survival and Loss
Among the many who were affected by the collapse, personal stories of survival and loss are emerging. Families who lost loved ones are grappling with their grief, while those who survived face the daunting task of recovery. One such story is that of Mrs. Ngozi Okeke, a teacher at Saints Academy, who lost her daughter in the collapse. Through tears, she recounted the harrowing experience of trying to save her students and her child as the building crumbled around them.
Another story is that of young Samuel Ibe, a student who was buried under the rubble for hours before being rescued. His parents, overjoyed at his survival, expressed their gratitude to the first responders but also their anger at the circumstances that led to the disaster.
### The Role of First Responders
The role of first responders in the aftermath of the collapse cannot be overstated. Their swift and courageous actions saved many lives. Firefighters, medical personnel, and volunteers worked tirelessly to rescue those trapped under the debris. Their efforts have been widely praised, and many are calling for increased support and resources for emergency services to ensure they are well-equipped to handle such crises in the future.
### Looking Forward
As the state enters the three-day mourning period, there is a collective hope that this tragedy will serve as a catalyst for meaningful change. The lessons learned from the collapse of Saints Academy must inform future policies and practices to safeguard the lives of all residents.
In the coming weeks and months, the focus will be on implementing the recommendations from the investigation, enhancing regulatory frameworks, and fostering a culture of safety and accountability in all aspects of construction and urban development.
### Conclusion
The collapse of Saints Academy is a stark reminder of the critical importance of building safety and regulatory compliance. As Plateau State mourns the loss of its young citizens, there is also a determination to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again. Governor Caleb Mutfwang's decisive actions and the community's resilience offer a path forward toward a safer and more accountable future.
Comments
Post a Comment