The Jos North Local Government Council in Plateau State has directed the immediate closure of Abu Sinan High School in Sabon Layi following concerns about the safety of its buildings.
The decision was taken on Monday after an inspection led by the Deputy Chairman of the council, Sani Garkuwa, who reportedly discovered that the school’s structures did not conform to approved architectural standards.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mercy Kachollom Chuwang, LGA Chairman John Christopher confirmed that serious structural flaws were detected in the school.
He said visible cracks were found in key parts of the building, including beams and walls, creating a risk of potential collapse. According to the statement, the damage suggests that the facility may not withstand regular academic activities, particularly during crowded periods such as examinations.
The council warned that the situation mirrors recent building disasters in Jos, which were linked to poor construction practices and substandard materials, leading to tragic loss of lives.
As a precautionary measure, the LGA ordered the school to suspend all academic activities and send students home immediately to prevent any possible incident.
The statement also pointed out inconsistencies in the school’s identity, noting that while the signboard bears the name Victory High Science School, students’ uniforms carry the inscription Abu Sinan High School.
Additionally, the school was said to lack adequate ventilation, proper doors and windows, and functional toilet facilities, making it unsuitable for learning.
The council has instructed the school management to close down and reapply for approval with a valid building plan and necessary registration documents before resuming operations.
Christopher further cautioned other private school owners in Jos North to comply strictly with approved building standards, stressing that the council would continue to conduct inspections and shut down any institution deemed unsafe.
The warning comes in the wake of the July 12, 2024, collapse of a building at Saints Academy College in Busa Buji, Jos North, which resulted in the death of at least 22 students and left many others trapped.
