In a distressing incident on Saturday, a building under construction in the heart of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, partially collapsed, leading to the heroic rescue of one individual.
The incident unfolded in the bustling Central Business District, adjacent to Taj Bank, sending shockwaves through the nation’s capital.
The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) swiftly responded to the crisis, as revealed in a statement by FEMA spokesperson Nkechi Isa.
According to Isa, the agency received information about the collapse an hour after construction workers had attempted, unsuccessfully, to rescue their trapped colleague. The cause of the partial collapse remains unclear, adding an element of mystery to the unfortunate event.
A collaborative effort between FEMA and the FCT fire service ensued, deploying extrication equipment and the construction company’s excavator to facilitate the rescue mission.
Despite the challenging circumstances, the joint team successfully rescued the trapped individual, who was identified as part of the labor force casting the first floor when the structure failed.
“The victim was part of laborers casting the first floor of the building when the entire cast fell on him,” stated the FEMA spokesperson.
The rescued individual is currently undergoing treatment at the National Hospital, Abuja, highlighting the gravity of the incident.
In the aftermath of the collapse, Mohammed Sabo, the acting director-general of FEMA, visited the site to assess the situation.
Expressing concern over the incident, Sabo emphasized the importance of strict adherence to building codes and standards. He issued a cautionary message to developers, urging them to prioritize safety in construction projects.
Sabo specifically called on construction companies and developers to refrain from using substandard materials or cutting corners during the construction process.
Emphasizing the responsibility towards both workers and future occupants of the building, he stated, “They should prioritize the safety of their workers during construction and that of the ultimate consumers who are the future occupants of the building.”
The collapse of the building in the heart of Abuja serves as a poignant reminder of the critical need for vigilance and adherence to safety protocols in construction activities.
As investigations into the cause of the collapse are likely underway, this incident underscores the broader imperative of ensuring that construction practices align with established standards to avert tragedies and safeguard lives.
