By Chijioke Kingsley
Abuja (Sundiata Post) – The Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has banned mining activities in the Jos-Bukuru metropolis, following the Saint Academy’s school building collapse that occurred on Friday in the State.
Reports have it that the area which hosted Saint Academy, was some time ago designated for mining activities, making the area a hub for pounds and vulnerable for soil defect.
“Additionally, Governor Mutfwang announced a ban on mining activities within the Jos-Bukuru Metropolis, and directed the Nigerian Police to arrest and prosecute anyone found violating the order to ensure the safety of citizens” a statement from the Governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, Mr. Gyang Bere said.
Responding to the tragic loss of lives of students and staff, the Governor during an on-the-spot assessment at the site, ordered the immediate closure of the school, expressing dissatisfaction with the building’s structural integrity, saying that the materials used in the construction were substandard.
Bere said while the Governor visited survivors at the Bingham University Teaching Hospital and Our Lady of Apostles Hospital (OLA), he expressed deep condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.
“He urged residents of the State living in flood-prone areas to evacuate immediately and emphasized the importance of submitting building plans to the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB), for approval to prevent future tragedies”, he said.
He continued: “Yesterday was indeed a black Friday for us. It was a very unfortunate incident that could have been avoided with proper governance. The building was clearly substandard and has been a danger for years.”
“As of this morning, we have lost 22 lives. Many are still hospitalized. We thank God that the casualties were not higher, as many final-year students were absent from school that day. This is why, upon taking office, we signed Executive Order 003 to sanitize the city and prevent such catastrophes.
“We are not out to punish anyone or be vindictive. We aim to ensure we live in a civilized society, obeying rules and regulations. This school will remain closed, and we will investigate the cause of the collapse. Our scrutiny will extend to all schools to ensure safety”, he said.
Mutfwang assured that public schools would also be inspected, and government processes would be reviewed to maintain integrity.
“Many buildings in this city were constructed without proper plans. We will enforce compliance with town planning laws. Those with houses along riverbanks are already warned that we will ensure a safe distance between rivers and residences,” he said.
The Governor however, lauded the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Plateau State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the Nigerian Red Cross, and Plateau residents for their swift response, stating that their timely intervention prevented a higher casualty count.
