Senate Demands Government Action On Increasing Building-Collapses Across Nigeria

Senate Demands Government Action On Increasing Building-Collapses Across Nigeria

The Senate on Wednesday called on the Federal Government and all relevant agencies to urgently implement measures to address construction failures and hold accountable those violating construction procedures.

In response to a motion by Senator Dikwet Plang (PDP, Plateau North) concerning the recent building collapse in Jos that claimed the lives of 22 students, the Senate expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of young lives. The incident saw children who left home for exams returning to their families in coffins.

Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central), who supported the motion, lamented the frequency of such tragedies in Jos North. He highlighted the anguish of parents who send their children to school only to learn they have perished.

“This ongoing issue of building collapse in Nigeria stems from poor workmanship, substandard materials, and inadequate construction standards, leading to the unnecessary loss of lives and destruction of properties worth hundreds of millions of naira,” Ningi stated.

Despite numerous incidents, the Senate noted that investigations and research into these collapses rarely lead to significant punitive measures against those responsible.

Senators Adams Oshiomole (APC, Edo North), Adamu Aliero (PDP, Kebbi Central), and Zam Titus (APC, Benue North-West) called on the Federal Government to thoroughly investigate the Jos incident and hold accountable those involved in the construction of the collapsed school building.

The Senate also urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other agencies to mobilize relief materials for the victims and their families. Additionally, it called on the Federal Ministry of Health and other relevant bodies to provide immediate medical aid to survivors in Plateau North to facilitate their recovery and alleviate the impact on affected families.

In a solemn tribute, the Senate observed a minute of silence in memory of the deceased victims.