FG Panel Releases Initial Findings on Jos School Building Collapse

An investigative panel appointed by the Federal Government has disclosed its preliminary findings regarding the tragic collapse of a two-storey building housing Saint Academy in Jos, Plateau State.

The incident resulted in the loss of 22 lives and trapped approximately 154 individuals, all of whom were rescued and taken to medical facilities.

During a press briefing in Jos, Prof Samson Duna, Director General of the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute, presented the panel’s observations. Led by Prof O.F. Job from the University of Jos’s Building Department, the team identified significant structural deficiencies in the collapsed building. They noted signs of distress and highlighted the use of substandard construction materials.

Prof Duna emphasized the urgent need for integrity tests on all distressed buildings surrounding the collapse site, urging government agencies and construction professionals to prioritize safety protocols. He criticized the lack of regular inspections and penalties for non-compliance, citing a systemic failure contributing to building collapses across Nigeria.

In response to the incident, Senate President Godswill Akpabio urged the Plateau State government to reinforce town planning laws rigorously to prevent future tragedies. During a meeting with Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Akpabio extended condolences and emphasized the impartial enforcement of building regulations.

Governor Mutfwang, visiting the National Assembly for a public hearing on a legislative bill, expressed gratitude for the support and highlighted his state’s aspirations to host a proposed university.

The investigation into the Jos building collapse remains ongoing, with a comprehensive report expected to be released once the inquiry is complete.