The Abia State Advertising and Signage Agency (ABSAA) has disclosed that the advertising company responsible for the collapsed billboard that claimed the life of a resident in Aba a few weeks ago has fully covered the cost of the victim’s burial.
ABSAA also said that the company is in advanced discussion with the State government for the payment of compensation to the injured victims and other affected parties.
The Managing Director, Chief Executive Officer of ABSAA, Mrs Victoria Dibunma Onwubiko who made this known in a press statement, said that her agency did not keep silence on its responsibilities or abandoned the victims as was claimed by some people.
According to her, ABSAA is currently reviewing all existing billboard structures across Abia State to ensure full compliance with safety regulations. She noted that her office is ramping up inspections, enforcing structural audits, and taking steps to dismantle any unapproved or potentially dangerous installations.
She explained that the Abia State Signage and Advertisement Agency (ABSAA), as the regulatory body for outdoor advertising, has been actively working behind the scenes, engaging with the owners of the collapsed billboard structure. According to her, the owners have been fully cooperative with the agency and other relevant authorities.
“So far, they have covered the full cost of the deceased’s burial and are in advanced discussions with the government regarding compensation for the injured and other affected individuals,” Onwubiko stated.
She further stated that personnel from her agency participated in the rescue efforts and assisted in evacuating the injured victims to the hospital.
“Our priority is, and will always remain, the safety of lives and property in Abia State.
“In due course, we will release a comprehensive report to the public detailing the outcome of our engagements and the measures being implemented to ensure justice and necessary reforms,” said the Managing Director of ABSAA.
