A three-storey building under construction has collapsed in Abuja, causing panic among residents and prompting an emergency response from rescue workers. The incident occurred on Saturday evening in the Gwarinpa area of the Federal Capital Territory.
According to eyewitnesses, the structure came crashing down without warning, trapping at least one individual beneath the rubble. Emergency responders, including officials from the Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), swiftly arrived at the scene to begin rescue operations.
After several hours of digging through the debris, the emergency crew successfully pulled out a 27-year-old man who had been trapped under the rubble. He was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for medical attention. His condition remains undisclosed as of the time of filing this report.
Officials have cordoned off the area and launched an investigation to determine the cause of the collapse. Preliminary reports suggest that structural defects or the use of substandard materials may have contributed to the disaster.
Authorities have urged developers to adhere strictly to building regulations and warned that those found culpable will face legal consequences.
This incident is yet another reminder of the growing concerns surrounding building safety in Nigeria, particularly in urban centers where construction standards are often compromised.
More updates to follow.