NBRRI sets up panel on Jos school building collapse

From Jude Owuamanam, Jos

Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI) has set up an investigative panel into the circumstances leading to the collapse of the building of Saint Academy School in Busa Buji area of Jos,

No fewer than 22 students were killed and 132 others injured in the incident , which happend on Friday July 12.

Director General of NBRRI, Prof. Samson Duna, told newsmen in Jos on Monday that the committee is to determine the remote and immediate cause of the incident.

The committee, according to the DG is comprised of seasoned professionals in the construction industry and is to be chaired by Prof. Frederick Job, from the Geology Department at the University of Jos.

He said “In our usual manner and tradition in line with NBRRI mandate, NBRRI with the approval of Uche Nnaji, the minister of Innovation, Science and Technology has approved the constitution of building collapse investigation committee for Saints Academy, Busa Buji, Jos, led by Frederick Job a professor from Geology department university of Jos”.

Duna said their task is to uncover the causes of the collapse and identify those responsible.

According to him, the investigation committee has begun its work by gathering evidence and conducting interviews with witnesses and experts, adding that their findings will be crucial in determining the cause of the collapse and with a timeline of one month to submit their report.

He added that the committee’s report will also outline measures to prevent future incidents, stressing that, preliminary investigation revealed that, the physical observation of the two-storey building looks distressed l, the quantity of concrete is in doubt, the slab reinforcement anchorage provided was inadequate and other avoidable lapses.

Duna assured that the institute will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.

He noted that the incident at Saint Academy had also raised concerns about building standards in the country.

Duna emphasised the need for stricter enforcement of regulations and punishment for those who violate them to serve as deterrent.

The NBRRI DG explained that only qualified professionals should be involved in building projects to prevent such ugly incidences.

He urged stakeholders to prioritise safety and adhere to established guidelines In the construction industry.