Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has revealed that about 12 other schools in the state capital Jos are at risk of collapse.
According to him, the development necessitates immediate action, and he has established a Technical Committee to investigate the recent collapse of the Saints Academy Jos building, a two-story structure that claimed over 20 lives and injured many others, who are receiving treatment in hospitals.
At the committee’s inauguration at the Twin Theatre, New Government House in Little Rayfield, Jos, Governor Mutfwang requested it to thoroughly investigate the causes of the collapse and look into the responsibilities of everyone engaged in the building’s construction and maintenance.
Governor Mutfwang emphasised that the investigation is critical for averting similar tragedies in the future.
He stated, “We must understand why this incident occurred, identify any lapses in duty, and implement measures to prevent a recurrence.”
The governor expressed his commitment to enacting severe measures to safeguard the safety and integrity of buildings throughout the state, stating that “we cannot compromise on the safety of innocent lives. The loss of 24 children is a grave reminder of the urgency of our mission.”
Governor Mutfwang also asked the Secretary to the State Government to widen the committee’s scope to include the burnt Jos Main Market, where reports indicate that the surviving structure is also in danger of collapse.