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Several Feared Dead As Section Of Abia’s Ekeoha Shopping Complex Collapses During Reconstruction

Several Feared Dead As Section Of Abia’s Ekeoha Shopping Complex Collapses During Reconstruction

Several Feared Dead As Section Of Abia’s Ekeoha Shopping Complex Collapses During Reconstruction

A tragic incident struck Aba, Abia State, today, October 22, 2025, as a section of the popular Ekeoha Shopping Complex collapsed during ongoing reconstruction work, leaving several persons feared dead and many others trapped beneath the rubble. The heartbreaking event has thrown the bustling commercial city into chaos and mourning as emergency responders, traders, and residents struggle to rescue those buried alive.

Eyewitnesses said the collapse occurred around 11 a.m. when dozens of artisans, traders, and engineers were working on the reconstruction of the old complex. According to reports, part of the building caved in suddenly, sending clouds of dust into the air and causing panic within and around the market area.

One eyewitness, identified as Chukwuemeka Nwosu, told reporters that the tragedy unfolded within seconds. “We just heard a loud noise, like thunder. Before we knew it, the upper floor came crashing down. People ran for safety, but many were trapped inside. Some of us tried to lift the debris, but it was too heavy,” he said, visibly shaken.

Rescue efforts were immediately launched by local traders, vigilantes, and officials of the Abia State Fire Service, while officers of the Nigeria Police Force cordoned off the area to prevent further casualties. Later in the day, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Abia State Emergency Management Agency (ABSEMA) arrived at the scene with heavy equipment to intensify rescue operations.

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Before the crash

As of press time, officials confirmed the recovery of at least five bodies, while over a dozen injured victims were rushed to Aba General Hospital and other nearby medical facilities. However, unconfirmed reports suggest the death toll could rise, as many traders and construction workers were still missing.

The Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, expressed deep sadness over the incident and directed immediate investigation into the cause of the collapse. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, the governor described the tragedy as “a painful and avoidable loss of lives,” assuring that the state government would ensure justice for the victims and take decisive steps to prevent future occurrences.

“I have ordered an immediate structural integrity assessment of all ongoing construction projects within the Ekeoha Shopping Complex and other major public buildings across the state,” Governor Otti said. “Those found culpable of negligence or substandard work will face the full weight of the law.”

He also announced that the government would cover the medical expenses of the injured and provide support to families of the deceased.

Many traders lamented losing both loved ones and goods worth millions of naira in the disaster. A fashion designer who identified herself as Ngozi Opara said she narrowly escaped death after stepping out moments before the collapse. “I went to buy food when I heard the crash. My entire shop is gone. My apprentice and two of my friends are still missing. I can’t stop crying,” she said.

The Ekeoha Shopping Complex, known as one of the largest markets in Abia State, had been undergoing renovation aimed at improving safety standards and modernizing its aging infrastructure. However, many traders had earlier expressed concern over the speed and quality of the ongoing reconstruction, alleging that the contractors used inferior materials.

Building experts and civil engineers have attributed the incident to possible structural weaknesses and poor supervision. According to Engr. Uche Ibekwe, a structural engineer based in Aba, such collapses are often the result of non-compliance with safety standards.

“When reconstructing old structures, there must be a proper load assessment and reinforcement plan. If the project was rushed or the materials substandard, such tragedies are inevitable,” Ibekwe said.

He urged the state government to review all construction contracts and ensure that only certified professionals handle public infrastructure projects.

As night fell, rescue teams continued working tirelessly under floodlights, with excavators removing large concrete slabs while volunteers searched for signs of life. Families of missing persons were seen wailing and praying as emergency workers dug through the debris.

Officials have appealed for blood donations and medical supplies to aid survivors, while the Abia State Police Command advised residents to avoid the area to allow unhindered rescue operations.

The tragedy has sparked nationwide sympathy and renewed calls for stricter building regulations. The Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) condemned the incident and called for a national emergency audit of old markets and public buildings undergoing renovation.

Prominent figures, including Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Senate President Bukola Saraki, have taken to social media to express condolences to the victims’ families and urged the government to ensure accountability.

The collapse of the Ekeoha Shopping Complex stands as another grim reminder of Nigeria’s recurring problem with building collapses, often linked to poor enforcement of safety standards and corruption in the construction industry. As rescue efforts continue, the people of Abia and the nation at large watch in grief, hoping that lessons from this tragedy will lead to reform, justice, and safer cities.

 

 

Ahmed Ayomide

Ahmed Ayomide Umar - An experienced content writer and editor. A brand strategist, music executive, Creative director, Social media manager, Graphics & web designer

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