Jos, Nigeria  – A devastating incident struck the heart of Jos North Local Government Area in Plateau State as the Saint Academy school building in Busa Buji collapsed on Friday morning, resulting in significant casualties. As of the latest reports, at least 15 lifeless bodies have been recovered and deposited in three different mortuaries across Jos, while 77 individuals are receiving medical treatment in various hospitals.

The tragic collapse occurred around 11 am, during an examination session, trapping numerous students and teachers inside the building. The catastrophe has sent shockwaves through the community, with parents desperately flooding hospitals to locate and ascertain the condition of their children.

Casualties and Medical Response:

Nigeria Politics Investigations reveal the following distribution of casualties:

Our Lady of Apostles Hospital Mortuary: Five bodies received; 27 injured persons are undergoing treatment.

Bingham Teaching Hospital Morgue: Eight bodies received; 16 injured persons are being treated.

Plateau Specialist Hospital: Two deaths recorded; 34 injured students are being treated, including two with spinal cord injuries.

In addition to these facilities, the Jos University Teaching Hospital and other medical centers in the state capital are providing immediate medical attention to the injured. The coordinated medical response has been critical in managing the influx of casualties.

Rescue Operations:

A massive rescue operation is underway, involving the joint security task force, Operation Safe Haven, which has mobilized five Hilux vehicles and 30 troops to support the effort. Excavators, volunteers, security personnel, and Red Cross members are tirelessly working to rescue students still trapped under the rubble. The urgency and scale of the operation highlight the gravity of the situation and the community’s determination to save lives.

Government Response:

In response to the disaster, the Plateau state government has issued directives to all major hospitals in Jos to prioritize the treatment of victims without the need for documentation or payment. This measure aims to expedite medical care for the injured, many of whom are in critical condition. The government’s swift action underscores its commitment to addressing the immediate needs of those affected by the tragedy.

The Aftermath:

The collapse of the Saint Academy school building has left an indelible mark on the community, with approximately 200 people initially trapped. The ongoing rescue operations and the tireless efforts of first responders provide a glimmer of hope amidst the tragedy.

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available, and the community continues to rally together in the face of this profound tragedy.

Credit: Politics Nigeria