Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has ordered the immediate closure of Saints Academy in Jos following the tragic building collapse that claimed 22 lives and injured over 120 on Friday.
The governor made the announcement during a visit to the disaster site and hospitals treating the victims. He also directed the arrest of artisanal miners operating near residential areas and declared a three-day mourning period for the state.
In a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Musa Ashoms, Governor Mutfwang expressed his condolences to the bereaved families and assured that the government would bear the cost of treatment for the injured students.
“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,” the statement read.
The governor urged strict adherence to building codes and emphasized the importance of submitting building plans to the Jos Metropolitan Development Board for verification.
“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 added.
Out of the over 120 injured, 74 have been discharged, while 58 remain hospitalized across various medical facilities in the state.
