Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has ordered the immediate closure of Saints Academy in Jos following the tragic collapse of the school’s building on Friday, which resulted in the deaths of over 22 people.
The state Commissioner for Information, Musa Ashoms, made this announcement in a statement on Saturday.
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The governor issued the closure order during his visit to the Busa Buji community, the site of the collapse, and to the hospitals where the injured were receiving treatment.
In addition to closing the school, Governor Mutfwang has ordered the arrest of artisanal miners operating near residential areas in the state.
He also expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and assured that the state government would cover the medical expenses for the injured students.
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Ashoms also stated that the state government has declared a three-day mourning period in response to the incident. Flags will be flown at half-mast from July 13 to July 15, 2024, in honor of the victims.
The statement read, in part, “In response to the tragic loss of lives and injuries sustained by teachers and students of Saints Academy Jos, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, has declared a three-day period of mourning from July 13 to July 15, 2024. During this time, all flags will be flown at half-mast to honour the victims of the school building collapse in Jos.
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“Governor Mutfwang extends his heartfelt condolences to the families affected by this devastating incident and urges citizens to strictly follow building codes and ethics to prevent such tragedies. He emphasizes 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.
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“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.
“Governor Mutfwang also extends his deepest gratitude to the people of Plateau State for their tremendous support and solidarity in the wake of this tragedy. He thanks the first responders for their swift action and commends the many citizens who donated blood and other resources to aid the injured.”
According to the statement, out of the 154 individuals injured and rushed to the hospital, 74 have been treated and discharged.
“As of the time of this release, 58 individuals remain hospitalised, while the rest have been treated and discharged:
– Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH): 6
– Plateau State Specialist Hospital (PSSH): 6
– Bingham University Teaching Hospital (BhUTH): 14
– Our Lady of Apostles Hospital (OLA): 32
“A total of 74 persons have been discharged,” it added.
