By Eseohe Solomon
July 13, 2024 – Abuja, Nigeria
In a dramatic rescue operation today, emergency responders in Abuja successfully extracted four individuals from the rubble of a collapsed two-storey residential building. The incident, which occurred early Saturday morning near Cupid Hotel on Cupid Road, Sultan Dasuki Way in Kubwa, has gripped the city with anxiety and hope.
Initially reported with an unknown number of trapped individuals, the collapse forced responders into swift action. Two survivors were promptly rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention, while others managed to escape independently amidst the chaos.
The building, formerly known as Al-Hilal Hotel and more recently repurposed as residential apartments, collapsed suddenly, trapping several residents inside. Rescue efforts led by local emergency teams and security personnel remain ongoing as they work tirelessly to locate and extract any remaining individuals still trapped under the debris.
“We are doing everything possible to ensure the safety of everyone involved,” stated Chief Rescue Officer Ibrahim Suleiman, who is leading the operation. “Our priority right now is to continue the search and rescue operations until every person is accounted for.”
Regrettably, one person remains trapped beneath the rubble, intensifying efforts as responders strive to free them from the precarious situation. The unfolding situation has drawn parallels to a recent incident just a week ago, when another building collapse in Guzape’s Praco Limited Estate had left workers feared dead.
Authorities continue to urge caution in the area surrounding the collapse site, advising residents and onlookers to stay clear to facilitate ongoing rescue operations. The Abuja community remains on edge as they await further updates on the progress of rescue efforts.
The cause of the collapse is yet to be determined as investigations into the structural integrity of the building are expected to commence once all individuals have been safely accounted for.
