The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed that four people have died and seven others sustained injuries following the collapse of a three-story uncompleted building in Abedi Sabon Gari, Fagge Local Government Area of Kano State.

Nuraddeen Abdullahi, NEMA Coordinator for Kano State Territorial Office, revealed that the agency received a distress alert on Sunday, July 13, at approximately 6:49 p.m. about the building collapse.

According to Abdullahi, the incident occurred around 6:42 p.m. following a prolonged and heavy downpour in the area. "On receiving the information, we immediately mobilised a Search and Rescue (SAR) response team to the scene in collaboration with other relevant stakeholders," he stated.

Eyewitnesses confirmed that several occupants were inside the building when it collapsed, with many trapped beneath the rubble. The rescue operation continued throughout the night, with two fatalities initially confirmed and six injured persons rescued by 1:56 a.m. on Monday.

By 5:41 a.m., two additional deaths were confirmed, bringing the total fatalities to four, while one more injured person was recovered. All injured victims were rushed to the Murtala Muhammed Specialist Hospital in Kano for medical attention.

"Several individuals are suspected to be still trapped, and efforts are being intensified to reach them safely," Abdullahi explained. "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 support were being utilized."

The NEMA Coordinator added that search and rescue operations are ongoing in coordination with stakeholders and local authorities. A detailed post-incident assessment report will be compiled once operations conclude.

While there is currently no immediate request for additional external reinforcement, the situation remains fluid, and authorities continue to monitor developments closely.

Building collapses have become increasingly common in Nigeria's urban centers, often attributed to substandard materials, poor workmanship, and inadequate supervision by regulatory authorities. This incident highlights the ongoing concerns about building safety standards, especially during the rainy season when structures are subjected to additional stress.

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