The FCT Emergency Management Department reported the recovery of seven deceased iron scavengers who were involved in an incident at a demolished building site in Sabon Lugbe, a suburb of Abuja. The department director, Mr. Abdulrahman Mohammed, stated that two other individuals were receiving medical treatment at the Federal Medical Centre.
The unfortunate event was caused by a group of over 500 iron scavengers who trespassed the site, causing the collapsed slab to fall on them as they dismantled iron rods from the demolished structure. Contrary to some media reports, Mohammed clarified that the incident did not involve a multi-storey building collapse with numerous individuals trapped.
The demolished building was part of unauthorized constructions taken down by the FCT Department of Development Control. Despite warnings and attempts to stop them, scavengers continued to exploit other demolished sites. Mohammed expressed disappointment at their actions and vowed to ensure their removal from the area.
Law enforcement officers at the scene confirmed the scavengers’ activities post-demolition. An eyewitness recounted warning one of the victims about the dangers but was ignored, leading to a tragic outcome. Security measures are being reinforced to prevent further unauthorized entry and scavenging at the site.