The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) authorities have commenced an investigation into a tragic building collapse in Sabon Lugbe, along Airport Road in Abuja, that claimed the lives of seven individuals over the weekend.
The incident, which also left five people injured, occurred as scavengers were reportedly attempting to retrieve metal materials from the structure, which had previously been marked for demolition by the Department of Development Control.
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The FCT Emergency Management Department (FEMD) revealed that the building was structurally compromised due to the removal of key supports by scavengers, leading to its eventual collapse.
In a statement, Acting FEMD Director General Abdulrahman Mohammed explained that the structure had been deemed unsafe, and the tragedy unfolded as individuals attempted to strip iron rods from the pillars.
According to the FCT Police Command, five individuals were successfully rescued and have since been treated for minor injuries. The police and FEMD have both issued warnings to the public, urging individuals to avoid tampering with restricted structures to prevent further casualties.
