The Federal Fire Service has reported that at least three major fire incidents have occurred across the Federal Capital Territory within a 32-hour span in January, with losses exceeding ₦650 million. The fires, which took place at different locations throughout the FCT, were linked to suspected electrical surges and overloading, according to a statement released on Tuesday by the service’s National Public Relations Officer, DCF P. O. Abraham.
The latest incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, at Corner Shops, Chalyx Close, Abacha Road, Maraba, along the Abuja–Keffi axis, where six retail outlets were affected. “The emergency was reported at 02:51 hours by ASP Abdulmalik to the Federal Fire Service National Headquarters, Garki Station.
“The Station Commander, SF Agbo, immediately mobilised response teams, with the FFS Nyanya Station providing backup support. “Despite a late emergency call, firefighters contained the fire and prevented further escalation, saving property estimated at approximately ₦100 million out of ₦400 million exposed to the blaze,” the statement read. This incident, FFS said, “occurred barely 14 hours after the KUGBO Furniture Market fire, which itself came 18 hours after the LEVENTIS Plaza fire.
“Preliminary assessments indicate that all three incidents were triggered by suspected electrical surges. “Due to the prompt intervention of Federal Fire Service responders and supporting agencies, property valued at over ₦2.8 billion was preserved from destruction across the three emergencies.” Commenting on the trend, the Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service, Olumode Samuel Adeyemi, warned residents and business operators against electrical overloading and urged them to adopt strict safety practices.
“These preventable incidents led to losses amounting to ₦650 million in just 32 hours. If someone had simply turned off the switch, many of these losses could have been avoided,” Adeyemi said.
The Federal Fire Service reiterated its commitment to the protection of lives and property and called on the public to observe basic fire safety measures, including switching off electrical appliances when not in use. “Timely call brings timely intervention and reduces loss,” the service added. Members of the public were also advised to report fire outbreaks and related emergencies through the Federal Fire Service emergency line on 0803 200 3557 for immediate response.