By Jemimah Wellington, JKNMedia Reporter
A MAJOR tragedy struck Busa Buji community in Jos North, Plateau State, on Friday morning.
The two-storey building of Saint Academy collapsed, trapping many students inside.
The Collapse
The building gave way around 11:00 am while students were in the middle of their exams.
News of the collapse spread quickly, prompting frantic parents to rush to the scene, their cries filling the air.
Rescue Efforts
Rescue teams, including soldiers and police, arrived swiftly and began efforts to free those trapped under the rubble.
Emergency responders transported some injured students to nearby hospitals.
Responders described a chaotic scene as security personnel and local volunteers joined forces in the rescue operation.
Heavy equipment was brought in to clear debris and search for survivors.
Casualties and Ongoing Efforts
The collapse affected the classrooms of SS1, SS2, and SS3 students.
Despite initial reports of fatalities, the exact number of casualties remains unconfirmed. Efforts to verify the condition of those trapped continue.
Mobilized Resources
Mr. Sunday Abdu, Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), stated that they had mobilized all necessary resources for the rescue mission.
The Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) and other agencies are actively involved, using earth-moving equipment to aid in the search.
Mr. Eugene Nyelong, Zonal Coordinator of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), indicated that the casualty count would be determined once the rescue operations conclude.
Ambulances from various organizations, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), NEMA, Red Cross, Army, and Police, are on standby to transport the rescued victims.
Community Impact
Media reports say the collapse has sent shockwaves through the community, with many residents gathering at the scene, praying for a miracle.
The exact cause of the collapse is yet to be determined, but investigations are expected to follow once the immediate rescue operations are completed.
Lord have mercy.🧎♀️➡️