By Ralph Madugu
“May I stress that the safety and well-being of our children are of utmost importance and must always be considered such. The tragic incidence underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and stricter adherence to building rules and regulations to prevent future occurrence.”
Above were the words of the ECWA President, Rev Dr Job Ayuba Bagat contained in a press release issued in the wake of the recent tragic collapse of school St. Academy College in Jos.
While commiserating with victims and their families, the cleric said, “As a church leader whose Church’s international Headquarters is situated in Jos city, where the regrettable tragedy occurred, I owe it a duty to speak consolation to all affected families, the management and staff of Saints Academy, Plateau State Government, the entire people of Plateau State and all who commiserate with the affected families; praying that the Almighty God may speak His divine peace and comfort which transcend all human understanding and imagination into our hearts severally.”
The cleric while advocating for Christian unity to be proven through support for each other, called on members of the public to “extend their support through donations, voluntary services and any other means” that could alleviate the suffering caused by the tragic incident.
Said he: “As Christians, we draw strength from our faith and the teachings of love, compassion and unity. Let us then be a source of hope and resilience for the affected families and offer our unwavering support as they bear with such unimaginable losses and pains.
He also assured that the ECWA shall as much as possible continue to stand in solidarity with the affected families, offering humanitarian services, guidance, prayers and whatever assistance that may be required.
While demanding an inquiry into the incident, the ECWA President said, “Nonetheless, it is imperative that the authorities concerned should conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the building collapse, and should any form of negligence be found to be associated with it, those responsible should be held accountable to serve as a deterrent to others.”