The Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has mourned the death of at least 16 children in a building collapse at a school in Jos, Plateau State.
Chronicle NG reported that at least 40 children were rescued and 30 were hospitalized, according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
Reacting to the tragic incident, Peter Obi wrote, “I am disheartened by the heartbreaking reports of the unfortunate collapse of a school building in Busa Buji village, Jos, Plateau State, today, which has left at least 16 of our children dead, and many others, including teachers, trapped under the rubble.
“The incident occurred while the school was in session and students were writing their exams. I can only imagine the trauma of these young ones, sadly, witnessing such a tragic occurrence, and even their parents, who are undoubtedly worried about the safety of the children.
Obi, a leading opposition figure in Nigeria thanked the rescue agencies. “I understand that rescue operations began in full swing. I thank various organisations, including the FRSC, NEMA, Red Cross, Army, Police, and many other individuals helping out with the safe rescue of our children and their teachers.
“I sympathize with the government and people of Plateau State, the management, staff, and students of the school, and the families of all the victims affected. I also call on the government to carry out deep investigations into this tragic incident to unravel the causes and help prevent further occurrences around the country. My sincere prayers are with the remaining trapped children and teachers for their safe rescue.
“May God grant eternal rest to the dead, give their families the fortitude to bear the painful loss, and grant quick recovery to the injured.
Similarly, President Bola Tinubu expressed sadness at the incident in a statement by his spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale.
The statement read that Tinubu received the news of the tragic collapse of a school building, which resulted in multiple deaths and many surviving victims in Jos, Plateau State, with profound grief.
Tinubu described the unfortunate incident as a huge loss to the nation, as well as a devastating development – too excruciating to imagine.
He condoled with the bereaved families, families of all the victims, and the people and government of Plateau State.
He also commended emergency responders, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), security agencies, and all citizens involved in the search, rescue, and resuscitation efforts in Jos.
