Ukorebi Esien | August 23, 2026
CALABAR — Chairman of the Ben Akak Foundation, Engr. Ben Akak, has expressed sympathy with the management of SPAR Mall, traders, business owners, workers and other victims of the fire incident that ravaged parts of the Calabar Mall, Cross River State, on Saturday.
The fire, which reportedly started in the early hours of Saturday, August 22, 2026, destroyed several shops, goods and other valuable property within the shopping complex.
Businesses reportedly affected include a pharmacy, electronics outlet, clothing store, perfumery and phone shop, with the extent of the losses still being assessed by relevant emergency agencies.
Reacting to the incident in a statement, Akak, who is also a businessman, said he understood the pain associated with losing a business and valuable investments to an unforeseen disaster.
He said: “I understand firsthand what it takes to build a business, sustain livelihoods and protect valuable investments,” adding that the losses suffered by the affected businesses and individuals were deeply painful.
According to him, the incident was not only a loss of property but also a setback to the livelihoods of traders, workers and business owners who depended on their investments for their daily sustenance.
He therefore extended his condolences to the management of SPAR Mall and all affected businesses, while also expressing solidarity with the Government and people of Cross River State over the incident.
The fire, which sent thick smoke across parts of Calabar, attracted emergency responders, including personnel of the Cross River State Fire Service, Federal Fire Service and University of Calabar Fire Service.
Although the inferno caused substantial property losses, no death was recorded in the incident. The National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, Cross River State Emergency Management Agency, CR-SEMA, and the Nigerian Red Cross Society have commenced documentation and assessment of the losses suffered by affected businesses and individuals.
The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation. While preliminary reports have suggested a possible electrical fault, officials have stressed that the cause cannot be conclusively established until investigations are completed.
Akak further called for sustained support for the affected businesses and individuals, saying such assistance would be critical to helping them recover from the devastating setback.
He expressed hope that the victims would find the strength and resources to rebuild their businesses and restore their means of livelihood.
The Ben Akak Foundation Chairman also urged stakeholders and well-meaning individuals to rally around those affected, stressing the importance of supporting businesses and livelihoods in the aftermath of the disaster.
The Cross River State Government had earlier expressed sympathy with SPAR management and affected businesses and pledged support, while NEMA, CR-SEMA and the Nigerian Red Cross commenced a joint assessment to determine the extent of the destruction and immediate needs of the victims.
0 comments: