In a swift response to a tragic incident, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), issued a direct order on Thursday, August 24, to apprehend the owner of a two-storey building that collapsed in the heart of Abuja. The directive, as reported by Vanguard newspaper, comes as authorities scramble to address the shocking incident.
Expressing his dismay, Minister Wike lamented, “It is unfortunate that we woke this morning to the very disturbing news of this building collapse. It is not what we contemplated.” Commending the efforts of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Wike highlighted their invaluable support in successfully rescuing 37 individuals from the rubble.
Tragically, amidst the rescue operation, two lives were lost, casting a shadow over the otherwise heroic efforts. Minister Wike took the opportunity to extend his condolences to the affected families. He urged the Permanent Secretary to swiftly mobilize funds for the purpose of settling the hospital bills of the rescued individuals. “I will appeal to the Permanent Secretary to make sure that funds are raised to pay the hospital bills of those who were rescued so that we do not lose any more person, and this should be done immediately,” he emphasized.
As investigations unfold to determine the root causes of the collapse, Minister Nyesom Wike’s call for the arrest of the building’s owner underscores the seriousness of the matter. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of adhering to strict building standards to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens.