The Abia State Government has disbursed over ₦20 million in compensation to victims of a billboard collapse that occurred in Aba in May 2025.
The incident at Salad Market claimed the life of a tricyclist and injured several other tricyclists and nearby shop owners.
Governor Alex Otti directed that the state take full responsibility for the medical expenses of the injured, while also instructing the Abia State Signage and Advertising Agency (ABSAA) to audit all billboards in the state to ensure compliance with safety standards.
The compensation was paid to nine individuals through ABSAA.
The widow of the deceased tricyclist, Chioma Destiny, received ₦9.6 million, while other affected tricyclists received ₦1.6 million each, and shop owners received ₦500,000 each.
During the cheque presentation at Government House, Umuahia, Dr. Obioma Nwaogbe, Senior Special Assistant on Transportation, explained that the government worked closely with ABSAA and the billboard owners to ensure victims could return to their businesses.
The old tricycles damaged in the collapse were also returned to the owners.
Mrs. Victoria Onwubiko, Managing Director of ABSAA, highlighted that while the responsible parties accepted liability, the state advanced payments to the victims to avoid delays.
She emphasized that the compensation reflects the government’s commitment to residents’ welfare and accountability.
ABSAA has also commenced a full audit of high-rise billboards in Abia to prevent future accidents.
Among those compensated, the chairman of ASTOPU, Azubuike Victor, and widow Chioma Destiny expressed gratitude to Governor Otti for the support.
Destiny revealed she plans to invest the money in a business and use the proceeds for her children’s education.
Mrs. Onwubiko added that this initiative is part of a broader vision to improve safety, organisation, and aesthetics in the state’s public spaces, ensuring residents’ safety and confidence in outdoor structures.
