Arc. Uche Ukeje, Director General
Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA) yesterday announced that No. 71 Clifford Road, Aba is unsafe for human habitation.
According to him, the Building Control Unit, Engineering Department, and Town Planning Department of the GADA have responded swiftly to a report of a visible crack in a four-storey building located at No. 71 Clifford Road, Aba, and have done preliminary inspection.
Ukeje said that their preliminary inspection revealed extensive cracks around the building’s foundation, indicating that the foundation has been seriously compromised.
He said that 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.
The GADA boss therefore said that 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”.
He assured members of the public that there is no cause for panic, as the situation is under control, and all necessary safety measures have been put in place to protect lives and property.
He advised residents to cooperate with officials and avoid the affected area while the ongoing operations are completed.
Ukeje said that a thorough investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the structural defect.
He said that GADA remains committed to protecting lives and property and urges residents to promptly report any signs of structural distress in buildings to the appropriate authorities.
