A tragic incident unfolded in north-central Nigeria as a two-story school collapsed during morning classes on Friday, claiming the lives of 22 students. The incident occurred at the Saints Academy college in Plateau state’s Busa Buji community, where a total of 154 students were initially trapped in the rubble. Fortunately, rescue efforts led to the successful extraction of 132 students, who are currently receiving medical treatment for their injuries in various hospitals. The heartbreaking event has left 22 students dead, highlighting the devastating consequences of the collapse.
The community was in shock as dozens of villagers gathered near the school, with some visibly emotional and offering assistance, while excavators worked tirelessly to clear the debris. The scene was filled with sorrow as one woman’s distress was evident as she tried to approach the rubble, restrained by others in the crowd.
The swift response from Nigeria’s National Emergency Management Agency, along with rescue teams and medical personnel, underscored the urgency of the situation. The government’s directive to hospitals to prioritize treatment for the injured students without bureaucratic delays or financial burdens demonstrates a commitment to providing necessary care in the aftermath of the tragedy.
The state government attributed the collapse to the school’s inadequate structure and its proximity to a riverbank, warning other institutions facing similar risks to take necessary precautions. This incident adds to a concerning trend of building collapses in Nigeria, reflecting broader issues with enforcing safety regulations and ensuring proper maintenance in the construction sector.
