Billboard Collapse: Govt To Pay Burial Cost, Compensate Victims

The Abia State government through the Abia State Structures for Signage and Advertisement Agency (ABSSAA) has promised to foot the burial cost of victims of the collapsed billboard in Aba recently.

In a statement signed by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the agency, Victoria Dibunma explained that the agency, which is saddled with the responsibility of regulating and overseeing outdoor advertising in Abia State, it never treated the incident with levity.

She noted that her agency has been on ground right from the moment the incident occurred and that her team, alongside other emergency responders helped to coordinate evacuation, give medical support, and immediate safety measures.

“We understand the concern over what may seem like silence on the part of the government, but that’s not the actual reality on ground, as the government has been working tirelessly behind the scenes, engaging with the owners of the collapsed structure, who have been cooperating fully with the agency and other relevant authorities,” she stated.

Dibumma also revealed that the agency has entered into advanced discussions with the Government regarding compensation for the injured and other affected parties.

She emphasized that beyond this specific case, ABSSAA is reviewing existing billboard structures across the state to ensure strict compliance with safety standards.

“We are intensifying inspections, enforcing structural audits, and working to remove any unapproved or potentially hazardous installations.”

“Our priority is and will always be, the safety of lives and property in Abia State.”

While she regretted the sad incident, Dibumma said the agency would make public, the findings of their ongoing investigations and other engagements to ensure justice is served.

“In due course, we will provide the public with a detailed report on the outcome of our engagements and the steps being taken to ensure justice and reform.”

“We appreciate the patience and support of our citizens and reaffirm our commitment to responsible governance and public welfare,” the statement concluded.”

Recall that on the 28th of May, 2025, an ill-fated 20 feet billboard collapsed in Aba the commercial hub of the state near the Salad Market which claimed lives and injured many other persons.