Abia govt evacuates tenants as 4-storey building develops major cracks in Aba

The Building Control Unit, Engineering Department, and Town Planning Department of the Greater Aba Development Authority, GADA, has responded swiftly to a report of a visible crack in a four-storey building located at No. 71 Clifford Road, Aba.

GADA, an Abia State government agency, declared the building unsafe for habitation and foundationally compromised, after a preliminary investigation.

A statement signed by Uche Ukeje, the Director General of GADA, Thursday evening, said the defect posed a significant structural risk and could lead to the collapse of the building if urgent actions were not taken. 

He confirmed that tenants living in the troubled house have safely been evacuated, adding that the house is to be demolished to prevent any casualty or damage to nearby property.

“To safeguard lives, all residents have been safely evacuated from the building. The Authority is also taking the necessary steps to ensure the building is demolished in a controlled and safe manner, with every effort being made to prevent any casualties or damage to nearby properties.

“The Authority wishes to assure members of the public that there is no cause for panic. 

“The situation is under control, and all necessary safety measures have been put in place to protect lives and property. Residents are advised to cooperate with officials and avoid the affected area while the ongoing operations are completed”, Uche Ukeje, the GADA Director General said.

He further said that a thorough investigation had been instituted on the matter, and appealed to Aba residents to promptly report any distressed building to the agency, for appropriate action.

But a resident of Aba, Mr. Okoro Mark, while speaking on the development, urged the Abia State government to carry out integrity test on more high-rise buildings in Aba to prevent tragedy.