Trapped Security Guard Rescued Alive After Abuja Building Collapse

By: Chinedu Echianu

After an intense overnight operation, emergency responders have successfully rescued a trapped victim from the rubble of a collapsed three-storey building in the Life Camp area of Abuja.

The incident occurred on Sarah Ezekwe Street, near Kado Fish Market, involving a building under construction comprising three blocks of residential houses. One of the blocks collapsed around 7:09 p.m. on August 2, trapping two occupants.

While one individual managed to escape, the other, identified as Aliyu, a security guard on duty at the time, remained buried beneath the debris for several hours. He was finally pulled out alive at about 4:05 a.m. and promptly transported to Cedar Crest Hospital, Apo, where he is currently receiving treatment.

A statement made available to newsmen by Nkechi Isa, Head, Public Affairs at the FCT Emergency Management Department (FEMD) said the rescue was the result of a coordinated effort by multiple agencies, including the Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Federal and FCT Fire Services, the FCT Police Command, the Civil Defence Corps, the Joint Task Force, and Julius Berger Construction Company.

According to the Acting Director General of FEMD, Engr. Abdulrahman Mohammed, the timely response and collaboration of stakeholders played a crucial role in the success of the rescue operation.

He, however, expressed deep concern over the recurring issue of building collapses in the country and emphasized the need for stricter regulation in the construction industry.

“This is the rainy season; builders must check the foundation of their structures and quickly correct any anomalies,” Engr. Mohammed warned. “Only professionals should engage in the building sector. The use of substandard and fake building materials must stop.”

He extended his appreciation to all agencies and construction firms that participated in the rescue efforts, noting that their swift action helped avert a potential tragedy.