More than 25 Nigerians have been confirmed dead following a boat mishap in the territorial waters of the Republic of Cameroon, with search operations still ongoing for other victims.
The ill-fated boat departed from Garoua in Cameroon, heading to Dasin in Fufore Local Government Area of Adamawa State, Nigeria. It was reportedly overloaded with over 50 passengers along with iron tools and scavenged items.
According to sources, the vessel left late on Monday night despite repeated warnings from the boat owner to postpone the journey until the following morning. However, the driver and some passengers ignored the advice.
An eyewitness and maritime expert attributed the accident to strong waves that struck the front of the overloaded boat in the early hours of the morning. Before the occupants could react, the vessel capsized, resulting in the deaths of more than 30 people on board.
The incident occurred over 146 kilometres from the Nigeria-Cameroon border. Communities along the riverbanks reported that 19 bodies have so far been recovered. The deceased were laid to rest in Wuro Bokki, Fufore Local Government Area of Adamawa State. Search efforts for the remaining victims continue.
Local divers from both Nigeria and Cameroon are actively involved in the rescue and recovery operation within the Cameroonian territorial waters. Some survivors are receiving treatment in medical facilities in border villages on both sides.
Although the overloading and capsizing occurred in Cameroonian territory, the flowing water carried victims and bodies toward the Nigerian side. When contacted, the Nigeria Police Marine Unit in Adamawa stated that the incident fell outside their jurisdiction as it occurred in Cameroonian waters.
Cross-border trade between Nigeria and Cameroon, particularly along the waterways in border communities, remains very active.
