Tragedy struck on Saturday evening as a multi-storey building under construction collapsed in Sabon Lugbe, a suburb of Abuja, leaving dozens of people feared trapped. The incident reportedly occurred around 5 p.m., with numerous occupants still inside the building at the time of the collapse.
Abuja Residents Rally for Immediate Rescue
In a display of unity and urgency, residents quickly organized a rescue effort, using their hands and makeshift tools to dig through debris in a desperate attempt to reach those trapped beneath. Videos shared on social media captured the frantic scene as sympathizers joined the effort, hoping to save lives while awaiting official emergency responders.
Emergency Response Underway
The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Agency (FEMD) has confirmed it is en route to the scene. “We are on our way,” FEMD spokesperson Nkechi Isa said, noting that more details will be provided once responders arrive and assess the situation. However, as of now, emergency teams had not yet reached the site, adding to the tension and concern among those on the ground.
Over 40 Believed to Be Trapped
Reports indicate that no fewer than 40 people may be trapped under the rubble. Eyewitness accounts describe the scene as chaotic, with concerned citizens calling for swift government intervention. “People are under this rubble. It’s a building under construction. We are calling on the government and relevant agencies to come and rescue those who are trapped here,” one narrator stated in a video capturing the incident.
Recent Incidents Raise Concerns in Abuja
This collapse follows recent incidents in Abuja, including a two-storey residential building that partially collapsed earlier this month in Kubwa. In that case, four people were rescued. Just weeks before, a building at Praco Limited Estate in Guzape also collapsed, with fears of multiple casualties. These recurring incidents have raised pressing questions about construction standards and safety regulations in the Federal Capital Territory.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has launched an investigation into the incident.
Stay tuned to Abuja Blog for updates as more details emerge on this tragic incident and as emergency teams work to rescue those trapped.
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