The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Cross River State, Sir Arthur Jarvis Archibong, has criticised the state’s emergency response system following the recent fire outbreak at SPAR Shopping Mall in Calabar.
Archibong said the incident exposed what he described as serious weaknesses in the state’s preparedness to respond to emergencies, particularly the condition of firefighting equipment and resources.
“Our fire trucks have no water, firefighters no diesel,” Archibong said, arguing that firefighters cannot effectively respond to major emergencies without the basic resources needed to operate.
He expressed concern over the losses suffered by businesses and individuals affected by the SPAR Mall fire, saying the incident should serve as a wake-up call for the state government to strengthen emergency response infrastructure.
The PDP candidate also questioned the government’s priorities, particularly its efforts to attract investments into the state while, according to him, critical public safety infrastructure remains inadequately equipped.
Archibong said a state seeking to attract businesses and investors must also have the capacity to protect lives, properties and investments when emergencies occur.
He promised that if elected governor, his administration would prioritise the state’s fire service and other emergency response agencies by providing the equipment, water, fuel and logistical support required for rapid intervention.
The statement is likely to add to the growing political debate in Cross River as the 2027 governorship election approaches, with opposition parties increasingly using issues around infrastructure, public safety and government preparedness to challenge the administration of Governor Bassey Otu.
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