29/05/2025
😭😭😭😭😭Tragedy in Aba: Giant Billboard Collapses on Tricycles During Storm, Leaves Trail of Injuries and Destruction
A regular rainy afternoon in Aba turned tragic — as a towering advertising billboard came crashing down, leaving a scene of chaos, injuries, and heartbreak.
The incident happened Wednesday along the ever-busy Aba-Owerri Road, right at the Salad Market junction — a spot known for heavy commercial tricycle traffic.
The massive structure collapsed during a heavy downpour, falling directly on several commercial tricycles waiting to pick up passengers. High-tension electricity wires were also destroyed in the process, plunging the area into darkness.
Eyewitnesses say the scene was horrific. Drivers and passengers alike were caught under the metal frame, and though the exact number of casualties remains unclear, many were rushed to nearby hospitals for urgent medical care.
Nine tricycles were reportedly trapped under the wreckage, according to residents who witnessed the aftermath.
Mr. Chike, one of the eyewitnesses, said the billboard had been standing for years but came down after strong winds uprooted its base during the storm.
He also quoted some structural engineers at the scene who blamed a weak foundation for the collapse — alleging that proper safety standards were not followed during installation.
Another witness, Mrs. Blessing, described the incident as a wake-up call to government authorities responsible for approving and monitoring billboard structures. She urged them to carry out regular inspections and enforce strict compliance with building standards.
When fire service personnel arrived, the victims had already been evacuated. But the emotional toll was clear — with many bystanders weeping openly at the sight of the devastation.