Tenants stranded as Abia orders demolition of distressed four-storey building

The Abia State Government has ordered the controlled demolition of a distressed four-storey building located at No. 71 Clifford Road, Aba.

Occupants were reportedly ordered to vacate the premises on short notice, leaving many families and traders stranded.

Displaced residents were seen scrambling to move their belongings onto the streets.

Many expressed deep anxiety over finding unplanned alternative accommodation and funds for emergency house rent in Aba.

“Where do I start? My rent is just new. This is a new building or probably renovated; I can’t place it. I just paid and never knew the building had a structural problem.

“Truly, it’s going to fall, as the signs are clear, but I’m confused,” a tenant who could barely say his name was overheard complaining to someone on the phone.

Speaking on the issue, Arc. Uche Ukeje, Director General of the Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA), said that the marked four-storey building is unsafe for human habitation.

In a statement, Ukeje disclosed that his agency swiftly responded to a report of a visible crack in the residential building.

He explained that a preliminary inspection of the building revealed extensive cracks around the building’s foundation, indicating that the foundation has been seriously compromised.

The DG added that a thorough investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the structural defect.

He assured that GADA remains committed to protecting lives and property and urged residents to promptly report any signs of structural distress in buildings to the appropriate authorities.

He said, “The defect poses a significant structural risk and could lead to the collapse of the building if urgent action is not taken. As a result, the building has been declared unsafe for habitation.

“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, safe manner, with every effort 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 implemented to protect lives and property.

“Residents are advised to cooperate with officials and avoid the affected area while the ongoing operations are completed.”