Building Collapse: 58 Students Still Hospitalized as Gov Mutfwang Declares 3-Day Mourning

At least 58 students rescued from the collapsed school building in Jos, Plateau State, were still hospitalised as of Saturday while 74 others had been treated and discharged.

At least 22 persons lost their lives while 132 sustained injuries after the building of Saints Academy, a secondary school in Jos, collapsed on Friday morning while students were sitting their third term examination.

Statistics showed that in Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), six persons had been treated and discharged. In Plateau State Specialist Hospital (PSSH) another six were discharged. In Bingham University Teaching Hospital (BhUTH), 14 while 32 were discharged from Our Lady of Apostles Hospital (OLA).

Meanwhile, the Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has declared a three-day period of mourning from July 13 to July 15, 2024.
A statement by the state Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon Musa Ashom on Saturday, noted that during the three-day mourning period, all flags would be flown at half-mast to honour the victims.

“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.

“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,” the statement read in part.
Governor Mutfwang also extended his gratitude to the people of Plateau State for their tremendous support and solidarity in the wake of the tragedy.
He thanked the first responders for their swift action and commended the citizens who donated blood and other resources to assist the injured.