Calabar Timber Market Fire: No Casualties Reported, Police Confirm Electrical Fault
The Cross River State Police Command has officially confirmed that there were no fatalities in a significant fire incident that engulfed the Akim Timber Market in Calabar on Friday night. The blaze, which erupted at approximately 8:30 PM on March 27, 2026, resulted in extensive damage to goods and properties, primarily timber and construction materials, with losses estimated in the millions of naira.
Police Investigation Points to Electrical Cause
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, on Saturday, preliminary investigations indicate that the fire originated from an electrical fault. "Preliminary reports suggest that the fire allegedly started from a spark originating from the public power supply within the market," Eitokpah stated. The Command has launched a full investigation to verify the exact cause and assess the total damage incurred.
Coordinated Emergency Response Prevents Spread
Commissioner of Police CP Rashid Afegbua personally oversaw the emergency operations, deploying patrol teams and tactical units immediately upon receiving the report. The response involved a collaborative effort between the Nigeria Police Force, the Cross River State Fire Service, and the University of Calabar Fire Service. These combined teams battled the flames for several hours, successfully containing the fire and preventing it from spreading to the nearby Police Barracks. The inferno was ultimately extinguished at around 1:55 AM on Saturday, March 28.
Relief Over No Loss of Life Amidst Heavy Financial Toll
While the financial impact is expected to be substantial due to the highly combustible nature of the materials stored at the market, authorities expressed relief that no injuries or fatalities were recorded. "Fortunately, no lives were lost in the incident," the PPRO confirmed. "However, goods and properties, mainly timber and other materials, valued at millions of naira were destroyed."
Public Advisory on Fire Safety Measures
In the aftermath of the fire, the police have issued a public advisory emphasizing the importance of fire safety. ASP Eitokpah urged residents and business owners to adhere strictly to fire safety protocols, particularly in markets and other public spaces, to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The Command has pledged to provide updates on the investigation as more information becomes available.
