A tragic accident shook residents of Aba, Abia State, on Wednesday afternoon as a large advertising billboard collapsed during a heavy downpour, crushing several tricycles (Keke NAPEP) and injuring passengers.
The incident happened at Salad Market junction, close to the GIA Event Centre, just as a violent storm with strong winds swept through the area.
Eyewitnesses described a terrifying scene as the massive billboard came crashing down without warning. It landed directly on tricycles transporting passengers, leaving many trapped under the wreckage.
“We just heard a loud noise, and before we knew it, the billboard had fallen. People were shouting and running. Some tricycles were crushed,” said a roadside trader who witnessed the incident.
As of press time, the number of deaths had not been officially confirmed, but sources at the scene say some fatalities are feared, while many were injured. Several of the injured were quickly rushed to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment.
Local authorities, including emergency response teams, security agencies, and engineers, arrived at the scene shortly after the incident to begin rescue efforts. With the help of bystanders, they worked to pull survivors from under the collapsed structure.
The injured were taken to Abia State University Teaching Hospital and other nearby clinics, while the bodies of those feared dead were reportedly moved to the morgue.
The Abia State Government and relevant agencies have yet to issue an official statement, but locals are calling for an immediate investigation into the safety of billboards and other large structures across the city.
Many residents expressed concern that such a large structure was not properly secured, especially in an area known for high foot and vehicle traffic.
“This kind of thing should not happen if the billboard was well-installed. The government needs to check all these structures before more people die,” another eyewitness said.
The incident comes amid the rainy season, when strong winds and poor infrastructure pose serious risks in many parts of Nigeria. Urban safety experts have long warned about the dangers of poorly maintained billboards, especially in crowded cities like Aba.
As rescue and recovery efforts continue, residents are calling for better regulations and inspections to prevent future tragedies.
