Tragedy Strikes as Building Collapses in Nigeria

In a devastating incident, a building in Plateau State, Nigeria, collapsed on Friday, July 12, resulting in the loss of 22 lives and injuring 154 people. The tragic event has prompted an outpouring of condolences and a call for action from the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.

Akpabio recently received a courtesy call from Governor Caleb Mutfwang and some traditional rulers at his office in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital. During the meeting, Akpabio expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and called for swift action to prevent such incidents from happening again.

"We want to condole you on the building collapse," Akpabio said. "Such a horrific sight and the building was not even built during your tenure. What it means is that you have to take steps to reinforce the town planning laws and take a lot of interest in the building industry."

The Senate President emphasized the importance of enforcing laws and regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens. "No sentiments attached. No matter whose ox is gored, if somebody does not follow the rules, if somebody erects a building on a passage for stream water, once the foundation is questioned, such building should be brought down."

Akpabio also urged the government to learn from past incidents and take concrete steps to address the issue of building collapses. "We know what has happened in the past. It is as if the high and mighty in society should construct a building, nobody would want to touch the building out of respect for them. We will continue to mourn the demise of those children. The entire country is very sad. So on behalf of the 10th Senate, please accept our condolences. We are with you in this period of mourning."

Governor Mutfwang accompanied by traditional rulers were in Abuja to participate in the public hearing on the Nigerian Institute of Mining and Geosciences (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2024. The bill aims to upgrade the Mining and Geoscience Institute to a full-fledged University, with the governor expressing optimism that his state would be the host for the University.

The incident has sparked widespread grief and outrage, with many calling for increased accountability and transparency in the construction industry. An investigation into the cause of the collapse is currently underway, and authorities have promised to take swift action to ensure the safety of citizens.

As Nigeria mourns the loss of lives and the tragic incident, it is crucial that measures are taken to prevent such disasters from occurring in the future. The Senate President’s words of condolence and call to action serve as a reminder of the need for vigilance and accountability in the pursuit of safety and well-being.