Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has ordered the closure of Saints Academy in Jos, which collapsed on Friday, killing over 22 people.
Musa Ashoms, Plateau state commissioner for information, confirmed this in a statement released on Saturday.
According to Ashoms, Muftwang issued the order while visiting the site of the collapsed building in the Busa Buji street, as well as hospitals where the injured were being treated, on Saturday.
The commissioner stated that the governor also ordered the arrest of artisanal miners who were mining near residential areas in Plateau state.
He stated that Muftwang also sympathised with the relatives of the deceased children and pledged that the state government would shoulder the expense of the injured students’ care.
Ashoms stated that the Plateau State government has announced a three-day mourning period following the tragic tragedy.
The statement read in part, “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.
“Governor Mutfwang extends his heartfelt condolences to the families affected by this devastating incident and urges citizens to strictly follow building codes and ethics to prevent such tragedies.
“He emphasises the need for all developers and property owners to submit their building plans to the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) for verification and revalidation, as part of the enforcement of Executive Order 003.
“We offer our deepest sympathies and unwavering support to those affected during this incredibly difficult time. We are dedicated to providing the best possible medical care for the injured and will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the collapse.
“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.
“Governor Mutfwang also extends his deepest gratitude to the people of Plateau State for their tremendous support and solidarity in the wake of this tragedy.
“He thanks the first responders for their swift action and commends the many citizens who donated blood and other resources to aid the injured.”
The statement also stated that out of the 154 people who were injured and rushed to the hospital, 74 had been treated and discharged from the hospital.
“As of the time of this release, 58 individuals remain hospitalised, while the rest have been treated and discharged.
“A total of 74 people have been discharged,” it added.
