CurrentReport Blog In a somber response to the devastating school building collapse at Saints Academy in Jos, Governor Caleb Mutfwang has declared a three-day mourning period. This tragedy, confirmed by the state government, resulted in the loss of 22 lives and left 154 injured on Friday morning.
Governor Mutfwang, deeply moved by the catastrophe, announced that from July 13 to 15, 2024, all flags in Plateau State will be flown at half-mast in honor of the victims. This directive came shortly after his visit to the collapse site and the hospitals where survivors are receiving treatment.
Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mr. Musa Ashoms, released a statement highlighting the governor’s declaration and his immediate actions to support the affected families. Governor Mutfwang expressed his heartfelt condolences and stressed the importance of adhering to building codes and ethics to prevent future tragedies.
“There is an urgent 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,” the governor emphasized. He assured that the state government is committed to providing the best possible medical care for the injured and will conduct a thorough investigation to uncover the cause of the collapse.
Governor Mutfwang reiterated that the safety and well-being of citizens, particularly children, remain a top priority. He urged all schools to comply with safety regulations and obtain necessary approvals from the JMDB before initiating any construction projects.
The governor also extended his deepest gratitude to the people of Plateau State for their overwhelming support and solidarity during this challenging time. He praised the swift response of first responders and commended the many citizens who donated blood and other resources to aid the injured.
As of the latest reports, 58 individuals are still hospitalized, while 74 have been treated and discharged. Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) continues to provide critical care to several survivors.
