The Federal Fire Service (FFS) has raised alarm over a troubling surge in fire outbreaks linked to electrical overloads and power surges in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), revealing that three major incidents recorded within just 32 hours resulted in estimated losses exceeding ₦650 million.
The disclosure was made on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, via the agency’s verified X (formerly Twitter) account, in a signed statement issued by DCF P. O. Abraham, Head of Corporate Services.
According to the service, preliminary investigations indicate that all three incidents were preventable and stemmed from electrical faults, reigniting concerns over poor safety habits in homes and commercial spaces.
Beyond the financial toll, the incidents once again underscore the growing vulnerability of urban infrastructure to fire disasters, particularly in densely populated commercial zones where electrical appliances are often overloaded and safety standards poorly enforced.
Details of the Latest Fire Incident Along Abuja–Keffi Axis
The most recent outbreak occurred in the early hours of Monday, January 19, 2026, at Corner Shops located on Chalyx Close, Abacha Road, Maraba, along the busy Abuja–Keffi corridor.
The fire affected six retail outlets and was reported at approximately 2:51 a.m. by an officer of the Nigeria Police Force.
Emergency responders from the Federal Fire Service National Headquarters in Garki were immediately mobilised under the coordination of Station Commander, SF Agbo, with reinforcement from the FFS Nyanya Station.
Despite receiving the distress call late, firefighters were able to contain the inferno and prevent it from spreading to adjoining properties.
In its assessment, the service disclosed that property worth about ₦400 million was exposed to the fire, but swift intervention helped salvage assets valued at nearly ₦100 million, significantly reducing what could have been a more catastrophic loss.
Pattern of Fires Linked to Electrical Failures
The Maraba incident came barely 14 hours after a devastating blaze at the Kugbo Furniture Market and just 18 hours after another fire outbreak at Leventis Plaza, also within the FCT.
According to the Federal Fire Service, early findings suggest that all three fires were triggered by suspected electrical surges and socket overloading.
“This incident 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,” the statement noted.
Collectively, the three emergencies exposed properties estimated at several billions of naira to destruction. However, coordinated firefighting efforts ensured that assets valued at over ₦2.8 billion were preserved across the incidents.
Controller General Issues Strong Warning to Residents and Businesses
Reacting to the disturbing trend, the Controller General of the Federal Fire Service, Olumode Samuel Adeyemi, cautioned residents, shop owners, and business operators to adopt stricter electrical safety practices, especially during off-hours.
He emphasised that many of the losses could have been avoided through simple precautions such as switching off appliances and avoiding the overloading of power sockets.
“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 stated.
The Controller General stressed that electrical negligence remains one of the leading causes of fire outbreaks nationwide and warned that continued disregard for safety measures could lead to even greater losses in the future.
Fire Service Reaffirms Commitment, Urges Public Vigilance
The Federal Fire Service reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, while urging the public to take responsibility for fire prevention by embracing basic safety habits and reporting emergencies promptly.
“Timely call brings timely intervention and reduces loss,” the service reiterated.
Members of the public were encouraged to report fire incidents and related emergencies immediately via the Federal Fire Service emergency line on 0803 200 3557 to ensure rapid response and damage control.
As urban centres continue to expand and electricity consumption rises, authorities warn that fire prevention must become a shared responsibility to avert avoidable disasters and mounting economic losses.
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