The Federal Fire Service says about three major fire outbreaks resulting in the estimated loss of more than N650 million recorded within a 32-hour period in the Federal Capital Territory in January 2026.
The incidents were attributed to suspected electrical surges and overloading which occurred at different locations across the FCT.
A statement issued on Tuesday by the National Public Relations Officer of the service, DCF P. O. Abraham explained that the most recent fire broke out in the early hours of Monday, January 19, 2026, at Corner Shops, Chalyx Close, Abacha Road, Maraba, along the Abuja–Keffi axis, affecting six retail outlets.
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, according to the statement, immediately mobilised response teams, with the FFS Nyanya Station providing backup support.
The statement stated that 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.
This incident, FFS said, occurred barely 14 hours after the KUGBO Furniture Market fire, which itself came 18 hours after the LEVENTIS Plaza fire.
Adeyemi said, “Preliminary assessments indicate that all three incidents were triggered by suspected electrical surges.”
The spokesperson stated that 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.
The Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service, Olumode Samuel Adeyemi, while commenting on the incident, warned residents and business operators against electrical overloading and urged them to adopt strict safety practices.
He explained that the preventable incidents led to losses amounting to ₦650 million in just 32 hours, saying that if someone had simply turned off the switch, many of these losses could have been avoided.
The Federal Fire Service reiterated its commitment to the protection of lives and property, calling on the public to observe basic fire safety measures, including switching off electrical appliances when not in use.
Adeyemi stated that timely call brings timely intervention and reduces loss.
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.