Plateau State has entered a period of mourning following the tragic collapse of a school building in Busa Buji, Jos North Local Government Area.
The state government announced a three-day mourning period from July 13 to July 15, during which all flags within the state will fly at half-mast in honour of the victims.
The announcement was made in a statement issued by Plateau State Commissioner for Information, Musa Ashoms, on Saturday, as Governor Caleb Mutfwang visited the site to assess the devastation and console affected families.
The governor said, “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.”
He emphasised the importance of adherence to building regulations and ethics to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The governor ordered the immediate closure of Saint Academy School and announced a comprehensive investigation into the causes of the collapse.
“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.”
Governor Mutfwang directed the arrest of artisanal miners operating around residential areas, highlighting concerns over activities that could compromise building integrity.
The State Police Command confirmed the death toll at 22, with 132 individuals rescued and receiving medical treatment across tertiary health facilities in the state capital.
The incident has prompted calls for a technical audit of all schools to ensure structural integrity and compliance with safety regulations.