A passenger boat travelling from Garoua in northern Cameroon to Yola, Adamawa State, has capsized along the Nigeria-Cameroon waterway, leaving more than 20 people feared dead in a tragedy that followed warnings against undertaking the night journey.
The vessel reportedly departed late on Monday despite repeated appeals from residents who advised the crew to postpone the trip until daylight due to deteriorating weather conditions and the threat of an approaching storm. According to eyewitnesses, the operators ignored the warnings and proceeded with the voyage.
The boat was said to be carrying more than 50 passengers in addition to a large consignment of construction materials, including iron rods, destined for Dasin community in Fufore Local Government Area of Adamawa State. The heavy cargo, combined with severe weather conditions, is believed to have contributed to the accident.
Survivors and local sources said the vessel was caught in a violent storm around midnight before overturning in Cameroonian territorial waters along the Nigeria-Cameroon border.
Although the exact number of victims has yet to be confirmed, local authorities said at least 20 people have been confirmed dead, with fears that the death toll could increase as rescue operations continue.
Several bodies have already been recovered, while emergency responders and divers from both Nigeria and Cameroon remain at the scene searching for passengers still unaccounted for.
The recovered bodies have reportedly been taken to Wuro Bokki community in Fufore Local Government Area for burial, while survivors are receiving medical treatment at healthcare facilities in nearby border communities. Authorities from both countries are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, including reports that the boat embarked on the journey despite warnings about unfavourable weather conditions.
Search, rescue and recovery operations are continuing as officials work to determine the total number of passengers on board and account for those still missing.
