The Abia State Tricycle Operators Union (ASTOPU), Aba Zone, has officially confirmed that one of their members lost his life in the billboard collapse that occurred on Wednesday at Salad Junction in Aba.

In a statement signed by the Aba Zonal Chairman of ASTOPU, Victor Azubuike, the union described the incident as "a big tragedy" and called on the Abia State government to launch a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident.

The union has made several demands following the incident, including compensation for the families of those affected by the tragedy. "We are asking the Abia State government to compensate the families of the victims," the statement read.

ASTOPU also urged relevant health authorities to ensure that survivors currently receiving treatment are provided with "the best possible care and support" to aid their recovery.

Call for Improved Safety Standards

Beyond immediate relief measures, the tricycle operators' union has called on government agencies and regulatory bodies to prioritize public safety through stricter inspections and enforcement of standards for billboards and similar structures across the state.

"This tragic incident highlights the need for better oversight of outdoor advertising structures in our urban areas," the statement implied. The union emphasized that such accidents are preventable with proper regulation and maintenance protocols.

The billboard collapse at Salad Junction adds to growing concerns about infrastructure safety in urban centers across Nigeria, where regulatory enforcement has often been criticized as inadequate.

As of press time, the Abia State government has not yet issued an official response to the union's demands for compensation and investigation.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of public safety measures and the potential consequences when such measures are not properly implemented or enforced.