By Huldah Shado and Onyeanya Ebere Immaculata
Tragedy struck on Monday evening when a building collapse at an excavation site within the Radio House premises, Area 8, Garki, Abuja, claimed the life of a young labourer.
The incident occurred around 5:50 p.m., leaving residents and workers in shock.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by Nkechi Isa, Head of Public Affairs at the Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD), part of a foundation wall at the excavation site suddenly caved in while workers were digging about seven feet below ground level.
The FEMD’s Search and Rescue Team, led by Mr. Monday Adie, arrived promptly at the scene and discovered two workers trapped under the rubble.
One of the victims was rescued alive, while the other suffered fatal injuries and was confirmed dead despite rescue efforts.
The FEMD said investigations are ongoing to ascertain the exact cause of the collapse.
The department also reiterated the risks associated with construction and excavation work, stressing the need for strict adherence to safety standards to protect labourers and prevent future tragedies.
