The death toll in the school building collapse in Jos, Plateau State, has risen from 17 to 22.

Initially, the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency, Sunday Àbdu, confirmed 17 deaths after a rescue operation at Saint Academy in the Busa Buji community, Jos North LGA. However, the state Commissioner for Information, Musa Ashoms, updated the figures on Friday night, confirming 22 deaths and 154 injuries.

Ashoms noted that the injured are receiving treatment at various hospitals across the state.

The statement from Ashoms read, “The Plateau State Government expresses its deepest condolences following the tragic building collapse at Saint Academy Jos on July 12, 2024. The collapse resulted in 154 casualties, including fatalities and injuries. Emergency responders are currently at the scene conducting search and rescue operations. As of 6pm, 154 people have been rescued from the debris, and 22 individuals have been confirmed deceased. Injured students and staff are receiving medical treatment at various hospitals across Jos.”

He provided a breakdown of the casualties: Plateau State Specialist Hospital (39 hospitalized, 3 deaths), Our Lady of Apostles (32 hospitalized, 5 deaths), Bingham University Teaching Hospital (55 hospitalized, 14 deaths), Jos University Teaching Hospital (6 hospitalized, 0 deaths). This totals 132 hospitalized and 22 deaths, with a grand total of 154 victims.

Efforts to rescue those still trapped are ongoing, and hospitals have been instructed to prioritize the treatment of collapse victims. The state government has activated emergency response protocols involving the National Emergency Management Agency, State Emergency Management Agency, Red Cross, security agencies, and healthcare professionals working collaboratively in search, rescue, and resuscitation efforts.

Governor Mutfwang has ordered hospitals to accommodate all affected individuals regardless of documentation or payment and emphasized the importance of adhering to safety standards in building construction. He cited Executive Order 003, urging schools and other facility owners with structural concerns to close their facilities immediately, with the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) conducting inspections to prevent similar incidents in the future.

A thorough investigation into the cause of the collapse is underway. The Plateau State Government extends its deepest sympathies and unwavering support to the families who have lost loved ones and is committed to ensuring the best possible medical care for the injured and a comprehensive investigation into the incident. Safety and well-being, especially of children, is the top priority, and schools are urged to strictly adhere to safety regulations and obtain necessary clearances from the JMDB before construction.