A section of the First Bank building located on Library Avenue, Umuahia, Abia State, collapsed on Saturday afternoon, sparking panic in the city’s busy commercial district.

According to Punch, the incident occurred outside working hours, prompting traders and passersby to flee as parts of the structure suddenly gave way.

The area, which houses several banks, offices, and shops, has been cordoned off by emergency responders and security personnel who quickly moved in to assess the situation and prevent further risks.

As of press time, details regarding possible casualties or the full extent of the damage remain unclear. Eyewitnesses described the collapse as “sudden,” with one noting that “the structure just gave in and people started running for safety.”

First Bank authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the incident.