A building in Abuja collapsed on Monday evening, just hours after it was sealed by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) Development Control Department, which had directed occupants to vacate the premises.
The FCT Police Command said it received a distress call about the incident at about 7:45 p.m. and immediately deployed a response team led by Assistant Commissioner of Police, Department of Operations, ACP Edward Akaniyene, alongside the Area Commander, Metro, ACP Georgelyn Ufomadu.
Rescue efforts are being coordinated by the FCT Fire Service, with three ambulances stationed at the scene, while personnel from NEMA, FRSC, FERMA, the Federal Fire Service, the Security Service Department, the FCTA and other emergency agencies joined the operation.
Police said preliminary findings showed the building had earlier been marked and sealed by the Department of Development Control before it collapsed.
No casualties have been confirmed so far, although emergency responders are continuing search-and-rescue efforts to locate anyone who may still be trapped beneath the rubble.
The Command added that investigations have commenced to determine the circumstances surrounding the collapse and its possible cause.
It also urged residents to stay away from the affected area, remain security-conscious and report emergencies through its dedicated lines: 08032003913 and 08061581938.