The SPAR supermarket in central Calabar was engulfed by fire on Saturday morning, sending thick smoke across the city.
The blaze started inside the store and flames could be seen from Barracks Road, about 100 yards away.
The cause of the outbreak has not been confirmed. Inside the emporium, staff regularly bake bread, cook meals, and run electrical equipment.
Three fire service trucks were at the scene pumping water from the SPAR borehole to contain the fire. There was confusion in the car park as shoppers and traders tried to evacuate.
“It is not known if anybody is trapped inside but there is confusion here at the car park,” Victoria, a journalist at the scene, told Vanguard.
She said fire officials at the scene declined to answer questions.
SPAR, an Indian grocery outlet, is located near Watt Market and Bogobiri in the heart of Calabar. It began operations in 2012.
The extent of damage and whether there were any casualties had not been confirmed at press time.
