Governor Caleb Muftwang of Plateau State has expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the students and staff who lost their lives in the tragic collapse of a two-storey school building in Jos.
The governor took to his X handle to describe the incident as “unfortunate and untimely” and praised the swift response of search and rescue teams and members of the public who assisted in evacuating survivors.
He has directed government agencies to provide support to the surviving victims and emphasized the importance of building regulations to prevent such disasters.
He wrote, “I extend my deepest sympathies to the families of the students and staff of St. Academy School, Jos, who tragically lost their lives in the collapse of a two-storey school building behind St. Murumba, Busa Buji, in Jos North Local Government Area.
“Receiving this heartbreaking news has filled me with profound grief and sorrow. This tragedy is both unfortunate and untimely, and there are no words to adequately describe the pain and heartache of this gloomy situation.
“I appreciate the swift intervention of the search and rescue teams, as well as the members of the public who rushed to the scene to assist in evacuating some of the surviving students and staff. Their bravery and quick action in the face of such a disaster are commendable.
“I have directed the relevant government agencies, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Plateau State Emergency Management Agency, to provide all necessary support to the surviving victims of the collapse.
“It deeply saddens me that these students were trapped while writing their promotion examinations. My heart goes out to the grieving mothers and families who have lost their beloved children in this tragic incident.
“I want to emphasize the broader purpose and significance of Executive Order 003, which I recently signed into law. This order aims to protect our citizens from such disasters, prevent Jos from deteriorating into a slum, and ensure compliance with building regulations in line with the Greater Jos Master Plan.
“Words cannot fully comfort the grieving families over their immense loss. I pray that the God of all comfort will console and uphold them during this difficult period.
“May the Almighty God grant the families, the school, and the extended community the fortitude to endure this irreplaceable loss. May His consoling presence bring solace in these trying times.”
