The Minister of the Nigerian Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has taken swift action in the wake of a tragic building collapse. He has ordered the arrest of the owner of the two-storey building that crumbled on Wednesday night in the heart of Lagos Street, Garki Village, Abuja.
A statement released by the Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) confirmed that two individuals lost their lives in the collapse, while 37 others were fortunate enough to be rescued and promptly evacuated to local hospitals for medical care.
During his visit to the scene of the incident on Thursday, Wike not only gave the order for the landlord’s arrest but also directed the Permanent Secretary of the FCT Administration, Mr. Adesola Olusade, to ensure that all medical bills for those hospitalized are covered.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the minister also called upon the Department of Development Control, FCTA to expedite the resettlement process for the displaced residents of the community.
Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of collaboration between stakeholders and government officials to prevent such tragedies in the future.
“This is precisely the repercussion of constructing buildings without adhering to the necessary safety standards.
“This is why urban planning is crucial—to prevent incidents like this from occurring.
“My heartfelt condolences go out to those who lost their lives, and we will ensure that the medical expenses of those in hospitals are settled immediately,” stated Wike.
Prior to the minister’s arrival, Mr. Mukhtar Galadima, the Director of Development Control, shed light on the area where the tragedy unfolded. Garki Village, he explained, was not planned, and it predominantly houses members of the local community.
Galadima clarified that the ill-fated two-storey building had a mixed-purpose design, serving both residential and commercial purposes.
Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary commended the efforts of the security agencies and contractors who rallied together to assist in the evacuation process and search for any remaining victims amidst the debris.
Dr. Idriss Abass, the Director-General of FCT FEMA, affirmed that relevant agencies had been on the ground since the incident occurred, actively engaged in the rescue operations.
Abass assured the public that every possible effort is being made, “to ensure that no individual remains trapped beneath the rubble.”
As the aftermath unfolded, several victims spoke with journalists at the scene, recounting their devastating losses and urging the government to provide support.
Ms. Glory Perekeme, who operated a restaurant and a bar within the collapsed building, voiced her anguish, stating that she lost approximately N5 million. She bemoaned the fact that she was unable to salvage anything from her establishment.
“I had closed my business around 10:00 p.m. and was on my way home when I received a call informing me that the building had collapsed, and with it, my entire investment,” she said.
“I am still in a state of shock, and I don’t even know where to begin.
“We are in dire need of assistance. I implore the government to come to our aid so that we can rebuild our lives,” Perekeme pleaded.
