Boat mishap claims more than 20 Nigerians in Camerounian territorial waters

At least 20 Nigerians have been confirmed dead following a boat mishap within Cameroonian territorial waters. The overloaded vessel, carrying over 50 passengers and laden with iron rods and building materials, departed from Garwa and was en route to Yola in Adamawa State. Locals reported that the boat set off late Monday night, disregarding advice to postpone the journey until the following morning. The ill-fated boat reportedly encountered a storm in the middle of the night, leading to its capsizing. So far, 18 victims have been recovered and buried in Wuro Boki, Fufore. Search operations for additional victims are actively underway, with a joint team of divers from Nigeria and Cameroon scouring the waters. Some survivors are being treated in neighboring hospitals located in Nigerian and Cameroonian border villages. When contacted, the Nigeria Police Marine unit in Adamawa stated that the incident occurred outside the country's shores. Nigeria and Cameroon maintain strong trade relations, particularly within their shared maritime border towns and villages.