By Emma Una
The Cross River State Fire Service has explained why it was unable to fully contain a series of recent fire outbreaks across the state, attributing the challenges to inadequate firefighting equipment and operational limitations.
In an interview with *Niger Delta Voice*, the Director of the Service, Mr. Emmanuel Ajom, said although personnel are well trained and committed to their duties, the absence of functional fire trucks, water hoses, and modern firefighting tools significantly hindered effective response during the incidents.
His explanation follows a spate of fire outbreaks recorded within the past two weeks in Calabar and other parts of the state, which resulted in the destruction of property worth hundreds of millions of naira and, in some cases, loss of lives.
One of the major incidents occurred on March 22, 2026, when a filling station along Edibe-Edibe Road in Calabar South Local Government Area went up in flames. The inferno, which reportedly engulfed two large gas plants, spread to nearby communities, destroying houses and economic trees, and leaving several residents injured.
Similarly, on March 27, 2026, a fire outbreak at the popular timber market in the Akim area of Calabar razed multiple shops and goods valued at millions of naira. Preliminary findings suggested that the fire may have been triggered by a spark from public power supply. Despite the scale of the incident, no lives were lost, and the fire was prevented from spreading to the adjoining police barracks.
Barely 24 hours later, another fire incident was reported in Okuku, Yala Local Government Area, where a residential building was completely destroyed along Okpoma Road.
The incidents have raised concerns among residents, many of whom questioned the capacity of the state's fire service to respond effectively to emergencies.
Responding to the concerns, Ajom expressed sadness over the losses but stressed that the situation was beyond the control of the personnel due to equipment shortages.
"You cannot combat raging fire with bare hands. Our men are trained and ready, but we lack the necessary tools. We need functional fire trucks, water hoses, and other modern equipment to effectively tackle such emergencies," he said.
He appealed to Governor Bassey Edet Otu to prioritise the needs of the Fire Service, noting that improved funding and provision of modern firefighting equipment would enhance response time and save lives and property.
Ajom, however, commended the governor for recent efforts to rehabilitate old fire trucks, which are currently undergoing test runs, but maintained that the service requires brand new equipment for optimal performance.
"It is not in the best interest of the state for people to continue losing their means of livelihood to fire disasters. These are investments built over time, and we must do everything possible to protect them," he added.
Some residents who spoke on the development also called for urgent government intervention. A Calabar-based resident, Ms. Helen Ekpo, urged the state government to adequately fund the fire service and provide necessary tools and training to improve emergency response.
Another resident, Mr. Daniel O'Neil, appealed for greater attention to the sector, warning that fire outbreaks could affect anyone if proactive measures are not taken.
Observers say the recent incidents highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive upgrade of the state's emergency response infrastructure, including improved equipment, personnel support, and public awareness on fire prevention.
As the state continues to grapple with recurring fire outbreaks, stakeholders insist that strengthening the Fire Service remains critical to safeguarding lives, property, and economic investments across Cross River.
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