Residents Flee as Cracks Threaten Four-Storey Building in Aba

Panic gripped residents of Clifford Road in Aba, Abia State, after a four-storey residential building developed major structural cracks, forcing occupants to vacate the premises over fears of a possible collapse.

The affected building, located at No. 71 Clifford Road, was reportedly evacuated on Wednesday night after residents noticed alarming cracks on parts of the structure. Witnesses said the building had also begun to tilt, raising concerns about its stability.

Some occupants alleged that the building was constructed without a solid foundation, a factor they believe may have contributed to the structural defects, although this has not been officially confirmed.

The Abia State Government swiftly responded by dispatching officials from the Ministry of Works and the Town Planning Authority to assess the situation and secure the area. Aba Power also disconnected electricity supply to the building as a safety precaution.

An eyewitness described the incident as frightening, saying, “The cracks became more noticeable, and everyone was asked to leave immediately. We are grateful the warning came before the building came down.”

Another resident, who was among those evacuated, said the uncertainty has left many families stranded.

“People rushed to remove whatever they could from their apartments. It was a chaotic scene because no one knew what would happen next,” the resident said.

The incident has renewed concerns over building safety in Aba, with residents calling for stricter monitoring of construction projects to prevent avoidable disasters.

Government officials are expected to carry out a detailed structural integrity assessment to determine whether the building can be rehabilitated or should be demolished in the interest of public safety.