A late-night fire that burned for more than six hours has devastated the Akim timber market in Calabar, destroying large stocks of timber and other goods. The full extent of the losses is still being assessed.
The blaze, which started on the night of March 27, 2026, raised serious concerns as it edged close to the nearby Akim Police Barracks. However, a joint effort by police officers and emergency responders helped stop it from spreading further.
In an official statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, the command praised the quick and well-coordinated response that kept the situation from escalating.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Rashid Afegbua, was actively involved at the scene and directed the operation that eventually brought the fire under control.
After hours of intense firefighting, the blaze was finally put out around 1:55 a.m. on March 28, 2026.
Initial reports indicate that the fire began around 8:30 p.m. within the timber market, which is located right next to the police barracks. Early findings suggest it may have been triggered by a spark from the public power supply.
“Upon receipt of the report, a swift and coordinated response was initiated. Police personnel, including patrol teams and tactical units, were immediately deployed to the scene,” the statement said.
Firefighters from the Cross River State Fire Service, along with support from the University of Calabar Fire Service, worked together to contain the flames and prevent further damage.
Fortunately, no lives were lost, as most traders had already closed for the day. Still, many returned in a rush, trying to save whatever they could from the fire.
Despite that, authorities confirmed that goods worth millions of naira were destroyed, with timber and related materials taking the biggest hit.
Investigations are still ongoing to determine the exact cause of the fire, and officials say more details will be released as they become available.
