A tragic boat accident in the Republic of Cameroon has claimed the lives of at least 20 people, including 18 Nigerians who were travelling to Adamawa State, authorities and local sources have confirmed.
The wooden boat was reportedly sailing from Garoua in northern Cameroon to Yola, the capital of Adamawa State, when it capsized after being caught in a powerful storm late Monday night.
Violent Storm Overturns Overloaded Boat
According to eyewitness accounts, the boat was carrying more than 50 passengers at the time of the accident. In addition to the passengers, it was reportedly loaded with iron rods and other construction materials destined for Dasin, a community in Fufore Local Government Area of Adamawa State.
Witnesses said strong winds and heavy waves struck the vessel around midnight, causing it to lose balance before overturning in the river.
The combination of severe weather conditions and the heavy cargo is believed to have contributed significantly to the disaster.
Death Toll Confirmed at 20
Initial reports suggested that as many as 30 people may have died in the accident. However, local officials have so far confirmed the deaths of at least 20 victims.
Among those confirmed dead are 18 Nigerian nationals. The victims have since been buried in Wuro Bokki community in Fufore Local Government Area of Adamawa State.
Authorities have warned that the death toll could still rise as several passengers remain missing.
Search and Rescue Operation Continues
Search efforts are ongoing as emergency responders continue to look for passengers who have not yet been accounted for.
Divers from both Nigeria and Cameroon are participating in the rescue operation, while survivors rescued from the river are receiving medical treatment at hospitals located in border communities.
Officials are expected to provide further updates as the search continues and more information becomes available.
Boat Accident at a Glance
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Incident | Boat capsized during a storm |
| Location | Republic of Cameroon |
| Route | Garoua, Cameroon to Yola, Nigeria |
| Confirmed Deaths | At least 20 people |
| Nigerians Killed | 18 |
| Passengers on Board | More than 50 |
| Suspected Cause | Violent storm and possible overloading |
| Rescue Status | Search operations still ongoing |
| Survivors | Receiving treatment in border hospitals |
The latest tragedy has once again highlighted the dangers faced by travellers using waterways across parts of West and Central Africa, particularly during periods of severe weather and when vessels are overloaded with passengers and cargo. Authorities are expected to continue investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident while rescue teams work to locate those still missing.
