By Deborah Nnamdi
A tragic incident unfolded in Aba, Abia State, on Wednesday when a large billboard collapsed during a heavy downpour, killing a tricycle passenger and injuring several others along the Aba-Owerri Road.
The collapse occurred near the popular GIA Event Centre, sparking panic and causing significant traffic gridlock. Multiple tricycles were damaged as operators and passengers frantically tried to escape the falling structure.
Eyewitnesses reported that the billboard, suspected to have been poorly constructed, buckled under the force of the rain and strong winds, crashing onto several parked tricycles that routinely gather at the spot to pick up passengers.
At least seven tricycles were reportedly crushed beneath the wreckage. Bystanders quickly joined in rescue efforts as dozens of riders and passengers sustained injuries, some of them critically.
One witness recounted the heartbreaking moment when a passenger, who nearly escaped, was fatally struck by a sharp metal blade from the collapsing billboard.
“The billboard just came down suddenly with the rain. This place is a known spot for tricycle parking. It all happened so fast. One passenger almost got away but was hit by an iron piece and died instantly,” the witness said.
In response to the incident, Professor Charles Chinekezi, Chairman of the Civil Liberties Organization (CLO), Aba Unit, condemned the reckless placement and shoddy construction of billboards in the city.
He urged the Abia State government to act swiftly by enforcing regulations on billboard erection, stressing that the pursuit of revenue must not come at the expense of public safety.
“It’s unacceptable that lives are being lost due to regulatory failure. Authorities must put an end to the use of substandard materials in billboard construction,” Chinekezi said.
He also called for an immediate inspection of all existing billboards across Aba to prevent similar disasters and protect lives and property.
