A one-storey building containing eight shops has collapsed at Ikenga Ogidi along the Onitsha–Awka–Enugu Expressway, near the Building Materials International Market in Ogidi, Anambra State.
The incident occurred on Saturday night during prolonged rainfall, which reportedly led to the destruction of goods and property worth several millions of naira.
When the area was visited on Monday, the building had already been reduced to rubble, with debris scattered and parts of it washed away by floodwater.
No casualties were recorded as traders had reportedly closed for the day before the collapse happened.
Residents said the structure had shown signs of distress for some time due to persistent rainfall and erosion in the area.
Eyewitnesses linked the collapse to heavy flooding and drainage challenges around the expressway, noting that water flow in the area put pressure on the building.
They explained that the location serves as a convergence point for drainage channels from both sides of the road, making it highly vulnerable during heavy downpours.
Community members have called on relevant authorities to address unsafe building practices in the area and prevent further risks to lives and property.
Officials who visited the site said investigations had begun to determine the exact cause of the collapse and to verify whether the building had proper approvals.
Residents were also advised to exercise caution during the ongoing rainy season as more structural risks could emerge.