A three-storey building under construction collapsed in Aba, Abia State, on Wednesday, causing panic among residents in the surrounding area.

The building, which was being developed for commercial purposes, caved in during the morning while work was approaching the roofing stage. No casualties were recorded, as site workers had not arrived before the collapse occurred.

Residents who gathered at the scene blamed the incident on the alleged use of substandard materials and poor construction practices. However, Abia State authorities have not confirmed the cause of the collapse.

Officials of the Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA) have sealed the site and commenced an investigation into the incident.

The latest collapse adds to a growing number of similar incidents recorded across Abia State in recent months.

Between June and August 2026, about 10 cases of building collapse or severe structural failure were reported in Aba, Umuahia, Osisioma and Ikwuano.

Among them were the collapse of buildings on Finbars Road and Low Cost Housing Estate in Umuahia, a two-storey building at Umugbalu in Ikwuano Local Government Area, and a three-storey structure in Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area.

Earlier in July, GADA also evacuated residents of a four-storey building on Clifford Road in Aba after the structure developed serious cracks.

Residents have called on the Abia State Government to strengthen enforcement of building regulations and address the increasing number of building collapses across the state.