A three-storey building under construction collapsed on Friday morning in the Jikwoyi area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), triggering a swift emergency response led by the FCT Police Command.
The incident occurred at about 9:00 a.m. in Jikwoyi Phase 1, following a distress call received by the Command. The Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, promptly mobilised a rescue team to the scene alongside the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations.
On arrival, security operatives cordoned off the area to ensure safety, while a coordinated rescue operation commenced. The effort was reinforced by multiple emergency and response agencies, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Nigerian Red Cross, the Federal Fire Service, officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, and representatives of CGC Construction Company.
Preliminary reports indicate that 17 workers were present at the construction site at the time of the collapse. So far, eight victims have been rescued from the rubble and rushed to the Sisters of the Nativity Hospital, Jikwoyi, where they are currently receiving medical attention. Nine others reportedly escaped unhurt.
Rescue operations remained ongoing as responders continue to search for any other victims who may still be trapped beneath the debris.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police has ordered a thorough investigation into the cause of the collapse. The probe, to be conducted in collaboration with the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), will examine all approvals, inspections, and regulatory processes associated with the building project.
Authorities have also indicated that individuals and agencies responsible for the approval, issuance, and supervision of the construction will be invited for questioning, as part of efforts to ensure accountability and prevent future occurrences.
The FCT Police Command has urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and to promptly report emergencies or suspicious activities through its designated emergency lines.
