A devastating tragedy struck the Busa-Buji area of Jos North Local Government Area yesterday morning when the two-story Saints Academy building collapsed, resulting in the deaths of several students and causing significant disruption in the community.
The collapse occurred at approximately 8:00 AM on Friday, July 12, 2024, as students and teachers were beginning their daily activities. The building, which housed classrooms and administrative offices, unexpectedly caved in, trapping numerous individuals under the rubble.
Among the victims were four children from the same family, whose mother tragically succumbed to grief shortly after learning of their deaths. The family, well-known in the Busa-Buji community, had sent their children to Saints Academy for its reputation of academic excellence. The sudden loss of these young lives has left a profound impact on their neighbors and friends.
Emergency services, including firefighters, police, and local volunteers, rushed to the scene to assist with rescue operations. Despite their best efforts, the severity of the collapse made it difficult to reach some of the trapped individuals in time. Witnesses described the harrowing scenes as rescuers pulled bodies and survivors from the debris.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud cracking sound before the building gave way. One teacher, who narrowly escaped the collapse, recounted the chaos that ensued as the structure crumbled around them.
“It was like a nightmare. We heard a loud noise, and then everything started to fall apart. There were screams everywhere,” the teacher said, visibly shaken by the incident.
Local authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the collapse, with initial reports suggesting that structural deficiencies may have played a role. The Plateau State government has vowed to get to the bottom of the incident and hold those responsible accountable.
In the meantime, the community of Busa-Buji is left to grapple with the aftermath of this horrific event. The collapsed building, once a place of learning and growth, now stands as a grim reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safety and structural integrity in public buildings.
As the rescue operations continue and investigations proceed, the people of Jos North LGA are united in their grief, hoping for answers and striving to support one another through this difficult time.
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— Dockaysworld.NG (@Dockaysworld) July 12, 2024
The collapse occured at the 2 storey Saints Academy building located in Jos North LGA, Plateau State, this morning, July 12, 2024, in Busa-Buji Area. pic.twitter.com/tEDwzUcN4J
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