The Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State has ordered the immediate closure of Abu Sinan High School in the Sabon Layi community over safety concerns.
The decision was reportedly issued on Monday during an on-site inspection conducted by Sani Garkuwa, the Deputy Chairman of the LGA, who noted that the school’s structure did not adhere to approved building plan criteria.
In a statement provided to our correspondent on Tuesday and signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mercy Kachollom Chuwang, LGA Chairman John Christopher acknowledged the development.
“Cracks were observed in the beams and walls, posing a serious safety risk to students in the classrooms. The fissures, some running the full length of load-bearing beams and others branching across wall panels, indicate compromised structural integrity that could trigger a sudden collapse, especially under the weight of daily use and during examinations,” the statement said.
According to the statement, the extent of the destruction is similar to recent events in Jos, where the use of inferior materials and insufficient reinforcing caused catastrophic building failures that resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries.
“We are directing the school authorities to cease all operations and send the students home. This action is to ensure that schools remain safe and conducive for learning and to prevent any building collapse that could lead to loss of lives,” Christopher said.
The statement also stressed a glaring discrepancy in the school’s identity, noting that while the signboard reads “Victory High Science School,” students’ uniforms bear the name “Abu Sinan High School,” raising credibility concerns.
It further claimed that the facilities’ inadequate cross-ventilation, doors, windows, and restrooms make the learning atmosphere substandard.
As a result, the chairman gave the school administration instructions to close the facility immediately and reapply for permission using a current building plan and pertinent registration documents from the necessary authorities.
In order to protect the lives of students, the statement also warned all Jos North school owners to rigorously comply with approved building requirements, threatening to conduct additional inspections and close any subpar schools.
Chronicle NG reported that on July 12, 2024, a building at Saints Academy College collapsed in the Busa Buji community of Jos North, Plateau State, killing at least 22 students and trapping about 120 others.
