Several students were killed, and many remain trapped following the partial collapse of their school during exams in Nigeria’s central Plateau state, according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
Incident Details
- Location: Holy Academy School, Jos, the capital of Plateau state.
- Timing: The incident occurred in the morning, while exams were taking place.
Immediate Aftermath
Victims were heard crying for help beneath the rubble of Holy Academy in Jos. Desperate parents were searching for their children amidst the chaos, as reported by a journalist from Agence France-Presse present at the scene.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
- Confirmed Casualties:
- NEMA announced that numerous students had died.
- A local resident, Chika Obioba, reported that eight people were killed and dozens injured.
- A Reuters eyewitness mentioned that at least seven bodies were recovered from the debris.
- Rescue Operations: Efforts are ongoing to rescue those trapped, with authorities and local residents working together to save as many lives as possible.
Possible Causes
While the exact cause of the collapse is yet to be determined, locals suggested it may be linked to three days of heavy rainfall leading up to the incident.
Official Statement
NEMA confirmed the collapse of the two-story building housing the Holy Academy at Busa Buji in Plateau state, emphasizing that search and rescue operations are actively underway.
Community Response
The community is deeply shaken, and the focus remains on rescuing survivors and understanding the cause of this tragic event.
