A fire outbreak was reported at the SPAR Calabar Mall in Calabar, Cross River State, on Saturday following a reported explosion within the shopping complex.
The incident, which occurred on August 22, 2026, reportedly triggered a blaze that engulfed part of the facility, sending thick clouds of smoke into the atmosphere and disrupting activities at the mall.
According to information from the scene, the fire was preceded by what was described as a minor gas or fuel explosion, which reportedly sparked the subsequent blaze.
Images from the scene showed flames consuming a section of the mall, while thick smoke billowed from the upper part of the building. Members of the public were also seen gathered around the premises as efforts were made to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to other sections of the facility.
The incident caused panic among people within and around the shopping complex, as attention shifted to containing the fire and ensuring the safety of those in the vicinity.
The extent of damage to shops, goods and other property could not be immediately ascertained as of the time of filing this report. Similarly, information on possible casualties was not immediately available.
The circumstances surrounding the reported explosion and the subsequent fire are expected to be established by relevant emergency and safety authorities following a detailed assessment of the scene.
Further updates are expected as official information on the incident becomes available.
By Solomon Effiom
