The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD) reported the successful rescue of two individuals trapped in a collapsed building in Abuja’s Gudu area.
The incident occurred at Close 10, Drive 5, Second Gate of the Prince and Princess Estate in the Gudu District of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Friday. The FEMD received a distress call around 6:45 p.m. on the same day, prompting immediate activation of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), FCT Fire Service, and the Department of Development Control.
Nkechi Isa, from FEMD’s public affairs department, explained that the building, which was under construction, had been evacuated earlier after signs of imminent collapse were observed. “The two people trapped were in the detached bungalow behind the building,” she stated.
Florence Wenegieme, FEMD’s acting director-general, who had ordered the initial evacuation, emphasized the need for developers and individuals to adhere to building codes and conduct integrity tests on existing structures before renovations. She highlighted the importance of hiring professionals and ensuring workers on-site have protective gear to maintain safety. Additionally, she advised that insurance coverage should be provided for both the building and the workers involved.