Plateau school building collapse death toll hits 22

The death toll in a school building which collapsed in Jos, Plateau State on Friday has increased from 17 to 22.

The Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency, Sunday Àbdu, had earlier confirmed 17 persons dead after a rescue operation at the Saint Academy located at the Busa Buji community in Jos North LGA of the state

But the state Commissioner for Information, Musa Ashoms, who gave an update on the incident in a statement he issued on Friday night, confirmed that the death toll had risen to 22 while 154 persons suffered different degrees of injuries.

Ashoms added that those injured are receiving treatments at hospitals across the state.

The statement read in part, “The Plateau State Government expresses its deepest condolences following the tragic building collapse at Saint Academy Jos on July 12, 2024. The collapse resulted in 154 fatalities and injuries. Emergency responders are currently at the scene conducting search and rescue operations.

“Current situation as of 6pm, 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.”

Giving the breakdown of the casualties, he said, “Breakdown of hospital admissions and fatalities: Hospital, Patients and Number Deaths- Plateau State Specialist Hospital (PSSH) 39 hospitalised and three deaths; Our Lady of Apostles (OLA) Hospital 32 hospitalised and five deaths: Bingham University Teaching Hospital 55 hospitalised and 14 deaths; Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) six hospitalised and 0 deaths. Total: 132 hospitalised and 22 deaths, a grand total of 154 victims”

He noted that efforts are ongoing to rescue those who are still trapped in the collapsed building, adding that hospitals in the state have been ordered to prioritise the treatment of the building collapse victims.

The commissioner added, “The Plateau State Government activated emergency response protocols immediately upon notification of the incident. Emergency services, including the National Emergency Management Agency, State Emergency Management Agency, Red Cross, security agencies, and healthcare professionals 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 prioritise treatment of the victims, regardless of documentation or payment.

“Governor Mutfwang has specifically instructed these hospitals to accommodate all those affected by the collapse.

“He, however, emphasized the importance of adhering to established safety standards in building construction.

“Citing Executive Order 003, he urged 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.”

The commissioner said a thorough investigation into the cause of the collapsed building was 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,” he stated.