In the early hours of Saturday, 26th July, 2025, a three-storey building within a fenced private compound, at the Low Cost Housing Estate in Umuahia North Local Government Area Abia State, collapsed, prompting a flurry of public reactions and online speculations.
The affected structure is one of three separate buildings within the fenced compound belonging to High Chief Ikechi Emenike, a prominent political figure and stakeholder in Abia State. Contrary to reports circulating on social media, only one building in the said compound collapsed, while the other two still remain intact and structurally sound.
Preliminary information confirms that the compound was not in use at the time of the incident. No one was inside. It was under the surveillance of a security guard, and no confirmed injuries or fatalities were recorded within the premises.
Based on information gathered from people living within the neighbourhood of the property, the incident occurred around 2:55 a.m. on Saturday. Both the security and some neighbours confirmed of a big bang of sound before the collapse. 
In response, the High Chief on being informed about the incident initiated consultations with certified engineers to independently determine the cause of the collapse.
Importantly, some neighbours suspect possible sabotage, given the nature of the collapse. While not making any direct accusations, citizens are of the opinion that all possibilities, including foul play, must be thoroughly investigated.
Meanwhile, a statement by the team sent by Emenike also stated that “We are not jumping to conclusions, but the possibility of sabotage cannot be ruled out. That is why we are engaging experts to get a clear and factual understanding of what happened,” the statement read.
The statement also dismissed as irresponsible and baseless the claims that the premises were being used for criminal or unregulated purposes.
The property, according to the team, was strictly under construction surveillance and was secured by a Hausa security guard.
The team cautioned against attempts to introduce ethnic or tribal narratives into such a colossal loss to the owner.
“This is not the time for politics or ethnic finger-pointing. The issue here is technical and should be treated with professionalism through an independent inquiry” the statement added.
The incident has reignited conversations around building safety, regulation enforcement, and the role of the media in crisis reporting. Emenike’s team urged journalists and the public to avoid sensationalism and allow facts to emerge through proper channels.
As investigations commence, the public is urged to remain calm and await the findings of qualified experts.
