Fire raid resident in calabar, destroy four shops, damage properties.

By Divine Sam

A devastating fire in Calabar South, Cross River State, recently destroyed four shops and a residential apartment, causing significant property damage, though no lives were lost.

The fire is one of 49 such incidents in the area between July 2024 and January 2025, likely exacerbated by overcrowding and the growth of shanties. Local authorities, including Ekpenyong Akiba, Special Adviser to the Governor, are concerned about the increasing frequency of these incidents.

Akiba emphasized the need for better construction standards, as many buildings in the area violate the state’s master plan, and pointed out the dilapidated state of the state fire service.

Efforts are underway to improve fire response capabilities, including renovating facilities and operational vehicles. The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), led by Antigha Gil, has pledged to assess the damage and assist the victims, while also urging residents to be cautious with electrical appliances due to erratic power supply.