PLATEAU STATE GOVERNOR CALEB MUTFWANG VISITS SURVIVORS OF SAINT ACADEMY SCHOOL BUILDING COLLAPSE, SETS UP COMMITTEE TO INVESTIGATE CAUSE, BANS MINING ACTIVITIES IN JOS-BUKURU METROPOLIS.

In a clear demonstration of leadership and compassion, Plateau State Governor Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has swiftly responded to the tragic collapse of the Saint Academy Jos building at Busa Buji in Jos North Local Government Area. The incident resulted in the loss of lives of students and staff.

Governor Mutfwang, deeply pained and heartbroken by the devastating incident, expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, describing the tragedy as unfortunate but avoidable.

He extended his gratitude to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Plateau State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the Nigerian Red Cross, and Plateau residents for their swift response, stating that their timely intervention prevented a higher casualty count.

During an on-the-spot assessment at the site, Governor Mutfwang ordered the immediate closure of the school, expressing dissatisfaction with the building’s structural integrity. He noted that the materials used in the construction were substandard.

Additionally, Governor Mutfwang announced a ban on mining activities within the Jos-Bukuru Metropolis, and directed the Nigerian Police to arrest and prosecute anyone found violating the order to ensure the safety of citizens.

While visiting survivors at Bingham University Teaching Hospital and Our Lady of Apostles Hospital (OLA), Governor Mutfwang expressed deep condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.

He urged residents of the state living in flood-prone areas to evacuate immediately and emphasized the importance of submitting building plans to the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) for approval to prevent future tragedies.

Addressing journalists later, Governor Mutfwang said, “Yesterday was indeed a black Friday for us. It was a very unfortunate incident that could have been avoided with proper governance. The building was clearly substandard and has been a danger for years.”

Providing an update on the tragedy, he reported, “As of this morning, we have lost 22 lives. Many are still hospitalized. We thank God that the casualties were not higher, as many final-year students were absent from school that day. This is why, upon taking office, we signed Executive Order 003 to sanitize the city and prevent such catastrophes.”

Governor Mutfwang continued, “We are not out to punish anyone or be vindictive. We aim to ensure we live in a civilized society, obeying rules and regulations. This school will remain closed, and we will investigate the cause of the collapse. Our scrutiny will extend to all schools to ensure safety.”

He assured that public schools would also be inspected, and government processes would be reviewed to maintain integrity. “Many buildings in this city were constructed without proper plans. We will enforce compliance with town planning laws. Those with houses along riverbanks are warned that we will ensure a safe distance between rivers and residences,” he stated.

Governor Mutfwang expressed heartfelt sympathy to the families of the deceased and thanked the people of Plateau State for their support and solidarity. He called on the public to continue showing empathy to the affected families and prayed for God Almighty to grant them the strength to bear the irreplaceable loss.

Gyang Bere
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State
July 13, 2024.