Abuja, Nigeria – June 4, 2025
Tragedy struck in Abuja as two scavengers lost their lives while attempting to remove a window from a residential building. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning when the individuals, reportedly searching for scrap metal, attempted to dismantle the window frame.
Eyewitnesses stated that the scavengers were using makeshift tools to extract the metal when the structure unexpectedly collapsed, trapping them beneath the debris. Despite prompt response from emergency services, both individuals were pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the deceased, pending notification of their families. The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has initiated an investigation into the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding the collapse.
This incident highlights the ongoing risks associated with unauthorized scavenging activities in urban areas. In response to such incidents, the FCTA had previously imposed a ban on scavenging within the city, restricting scavengers to operating only on designated dumpsites located on the outskirts and in suburban areas. Security agencies have been tasked with enforcing this directive to prevent further accidents and ensure public safety.
Residents are urged to report any unauthorized scavenging activities to the authorities to help maintain order and prevent similar tragedies.
