4 feared dead, 7 injured as building collapses in Kano

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed the deaths of four persons and injuries to seven others following the collapse of a three-storey uncompleted building in the Abedi Sabon Gari area of Fagge Local Government Area, Kano State.

The tragic incident occurred on Sunday evening, July 13, at approximately 6:49 p.m., according to a statement by Dr. Nuraddeen Abdullahi, NEMA’s Coordinator for the Kano Territorial Office.

Abdullahi told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday that the agency responded promptly after receiving a distress alert. Rescue operations were carried out in collaboration with local authorities and emergency response teams.

Abdullahi said the incident occurred at about 6:42 p.m. on Sunday following a prolonged and heavy downpour.

“On receiving the information, we immediately mobilised a Search and Rescue (SAR) response team to the scene in collaboration with other relevant stakeholders” he said.

Abdullahi noted that eyewitnesses confirmed that several occupants were in the building at the time of the collapse, with many trapped beneath the rubble.

The NEMA Coordinator said that as at 1:56 a.m. on Monday, two fatalities have been confirmed, while six injured persons have been rescued.

According to him, two additional persons were confirmed dead and one injured at about 5:41 a.m, and were all rushed to the Murtala Muhammed Specialist Hospital Kano for medical attention.

“Several individuals are suspected to be trapped, and efforts are being intensified to reach them safely.

“During the rescue operation, the perimeter of the site was secured to control the crowd and ensure the safety of responders, while heavy equipment and lighting (Amida light) support were being utilised” Abdullahi said.

He said the search and rescue operations are still ongoing to rescue trapped victims in sustained coordination with stakeholders and local authorities.

Abdullahi added that a detailed post-incident assessment report would be compiled at the end of the operations.

According to him, there is currently no immediate request for additional external reinforcement, but the situation remains fluid and further updates would be provided as necessary.

(NAN)