Tragedy struck at the Prince and Princess Estate in the Gudu District of the Federal Capital Territory when a duplex under construction collapsed, trapping two persons in a detached bungalow behind the building.
However, the Federal Emergency Management Agency intervened leading to the rescue of two individuals.
In a statement on Saturday, the Head of Public Affairs at FEMD, Nkechi Isa, confirmed the rescue operation and reiterated the agency’s dedication to ensuring the safety of lives and property in the FCT.
According to eyewitnesses, the building showed signs of distress before collapsing, prompting the workers to evacuate the site. Unfortunately, the two occupants of the bungalow were trapped by the rubble.
She noted that FEMD received a distress call and sprang into action, deploying its search and rescue team in collaboration with the NEMA FCT Fire Service.
“The team worked tirelessly to rescue the trapped occupants, eventually cutting through the window protectors to reach them,” she noted.
“We are grateful that we were able to rescue the two persons alive,” she said.
She appealed to developers and individuals to observe building codes and carry out integrity tests on existing buildings before renovations.
“It is crucial to employ professionals and provide protective wear for on-site workers to ensure safety. We also urge developers to provide insurance coverage for both the building and workers on site,” she said.
The incident highlights the importance of prioritising safety in construction projects. The Director of the Department of Development Control also visited the scene to assess the situation.
FEMD’s prompt response and rescue efforts have been hailed as a testament to their preparedness and commitment to saving lives.
The incident serves as a reminder for developers and individuals to prioritize safety and adhere to building codes to avoid such tragedies in the future.
