The Plateau State Government has declared three days of mourning in honour for those who lost their lives in the Saint Academy School building collapse in Jos, on Friday.
Recall that IVNTV NEWS reports that no fewer than 22 lives were lost. And score of others that included teachers and students sustained injuries.
The school building located in Busa Buji, Jos North Local Government Area of the State caved in while the students were sitting for the third term examinations.
Responding to the tragic loss of lives and many severally injured and receiving treatments in the hospitals, the State Government has declared a 3-day mourning for the victims. The Government also ordered that all flags within the State be flown at half-mast during the three-day mourning. The mourning, starts today, July 13 to July 15.
The announcement was contained in a statement signed by the Plateau State Commissioner for Information, Musa Ashoms, on Saturday.
He said, “Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who visited the school on Saturday, extended his heartfelt condolences to families affected by the devastating incident. He urged citizens to strictly follow building codes and ethics to prevent such tragedies.
The Governor emphasized 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.
“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,” Muftwang said.
“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.”
The Commissioner added that Muftwang has also announced immediate closure of Saint Academy School. And a full investigation has been ordered into the building collapse by the Governor.
“It is unfortunate what has happened. But of course, what it means is that this school is closed down immediately. We can’t take any further chances and we need to send this message particularly to owners of private schools.
“The motive for profit must not overshadow the safety of lives. And so, we are going to take steps immediately to do a technical audit of all the schools. We are going to test their structural integrity to ensure that human beings can inhabit such buildings,” the Governor said.
Official reports have stated that twenty two persons have been confirmed dead. Fifty eight persons are in the hospital receiving treatment. While the rest have been treated and discharged, the report said.
source: Channels TV
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