Building collapse claims four,105 rescued in Abuja
By Anas Abbas
In a recent briefing, the Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD) revealed that 2024 saw the successful rescue of 105 individuals from various building collapse incidents across the territory.
Engr. Abdulrahman Mohammed, the Acting Director General of FEMD, shared these statistics during a media conference held yesterday in Abuja.
The reported collapses occurred in several locations, including Prince and Princess Estate, Guzape District, Garki 2, Kubwa, and Sabon Lugbe along the Airport Road.
Mohammed highlighted that the department’s efforts not only focused on building collapses but also addressed other emergencies such as fire outbreaks, flooding, and earth tremors, while distributing relief materials to affected individuals.
Reflecting on the department’s activities over the past year, Mohammed noted that FEMD successfully saved approximately 3,500 lives through 165 calls made to its emergency toll-free number, 112.
He provided a detailed account of their search and rescue operations: “In 2024, we rescued 75 individuals from flood-related incidents. Unfortunately, we did record one fatality due to flooding in Angwan Hakimi, Orozo, within the Abuja Municipal Area Council. To alleviate the impact of heavy rains, we barricaded the slip road at Galadimawa interchange on June 25, reopening it on November 17.”
In terms of building collapses, he confirmed that while 105 people were rescued, there were four tragic fatalities. The incidents primarily took place at the aforementioned locations.
FEMD also reported significant success in managing fire outbreaks, rescuing 1,230 individuals without any loss of life. Notable incidents included fires at Old Karu Market, a fitness center in Gwarinpa, and various residential properties.
In a separate incident, FEMD officials and police intervened to prevent a suicide attempt on a mast atop Katampe Hill. Their quick response showcased their commitment to community safety.
The department also addressed concerns regarding an earth tremor that affected Mpape, Katampe, and parts of Maitama Extension, which left over 2,000 residents in distress. A comprehensive report on this incident was submitted to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
On the issue of road safety, FEMD reported rescuing 89 individuals from road crashes, although three fatalities were recorded. In response to these incidents, they launched their “Operation Eagle Eye” campaign in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps. This initiative aims to educate commercial drivers at motor parks across the FCT on safe driving practices during the busy ember months.