The Abia State Government has disbursed twenty million naira as compensation to victims of the tragic billboard collapse that occurred near Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic in Aba on May 28, 2025. The incident, which happened during a heavy storm along the Aba–Owerri Road, claimed the life of a commercial tricycle operator, left several others injured, and destroyed nearby shops.
Governor Alex Otti, who also directed that the medical bills of all injured victims be fully covered, ensured that the affected families received prompt financial support. Nine beneficiaries were compensated, including the widow of the deceased tricycle operator, Mrs Chioma Destiny, who received nine point six million naira to help her raise her children and establish a small business. Other tricycle operators injured in the incident were each paid one point six million naira, while two shop owners whose businesses suffered damage received five hundred thousand naira each.
Representing the governor during the presentation at Government House in Umuahia, the Senior Special Assistant on Transportation, Dr Obioma Nwaogbe, explained that the compensation was made possible through collaboration between the state government, the Abia State Signage and Advertising Agency, and the owners of the collapsed billboard.
Nwaogbe said the support was aimed at helping the victims rebuild their lives and sustain their means of livelihood. He added that new tricycles would be provided to those who lost theirs in the accident. He further cautioned relatives of the deceased against interfering with the funds allocated to his widow, stressing that the money was strictly intended to support her family and create a sustainable source of income.
He praised Governor Otti for his compassion and swift intervention, describing the gesture as a rare display of empathy and responsible governance.
The Chairman of the Abia State Tricycle Operators Union, Mr Azubuike Victor, alongside other beneficiaries, expressed deep gratitude to the governor, noting that no previous administration had shown such responsiveness and care toward ordinary citizens.
The Managing Director of the Abia State Signage and Advertising Agency, Mrs Victoria Onwubiko, also announced that the agency had intensified efforts to prevent similar tragedies. She said a comprehensive audit of all high-rise billboards across the state had commenced to assess their structural safety and compliance with regulatory standards.
According to her, the government is committed to enforcing strict measures that guarantee safety, orderliness, and aesthetic improvement across Abia’s urban and commercial areas, reinforcing its dedication to protecting lives and promoting a safer environment for all.
