The fire outbreak reportedly occurred after the mother, simply identified as Mrs. Offiong, allegedly left home by 1:00am to meet her boyfriend last Sunday at the Njahasang area in Calabar Municipal local government area of the state.
According to reports, before Mrs Offiong left, she left a candle on for her kids as there was no power. Unfortunately, the candle burnt out and began to burn the surface it was on, and the twins, aged 5, were burnt in the fire.
Confirming the story, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in Cross River State, DSP Irene Ugbo, said that the incident occurred on Sunday night.
“The story we gathered was that she normally leaves her house and slept outside. Sometimes it was alleged she slept with her boy or man friend.
“On that particular night, Sunday, she left her house as usual and locked the children in with candlelight on when PHED seized the supply.
“The children are twins and five years each – neighbours almost lynched her but Police rescued her. She is in our custody (Police) and her name is Mrs Effiong.”