Survivors of the January 14 massacre in Gidado-Mbandfung, Ndu Subdivision, have received emergency assistance from President Paul Biya, after an attack by separatists that claimed 14 lives.
The relief materials, delivered Wednesday January 21 through the Ministry of Territorial Administration’s emergency humanitarian services, included mattresses, bedding materials, assorted foodstuffs, essential household items, and cash envelopes for affected families now struggling to rebuild their lives. Senior Divisional Officer for Donga-Mantung Division, George Magloire Bassilekin, officially handed the gifts in Ndu and conveyed condolence message from President Biya and First Lady Chantal Biya to the bereaved families. “The Head of State shares in your pain and stands in solidarity with the people of Ndu during this difficult time,” Bassilekin told recipients during the ceremony.
The January 14 attack on Gidado-Mbandfung left 14 people dead and caused widespread destruction of homes and property. Survivors described a sudden assault that sent families fleeing into the bush, with many losing everything they owned. The violence has added to the mounting civilian casualties in Donga-Mantung Division, amid the ongoing Anglophone crisis.
Local community leaders have expressed gratitude for the assistance while calling for sustained support as families face the long process of rebuilding. Many survivors are currently sheltering with relatives or in temporary accommodations, having lost their homes in the attack. “We are very grateful for the help, our people need safety above all,” said one community member.
The humanitarian relief from the presidential couple, which arrived the victims promptly, signals the proximity of the Head of State to the concerns of the people especially in times of pain. While calm reigns in the Gidado locality, residents remain vigilant and have pledged their collaboration with security forces to track down perpetrators of the massacre.
Several bodies including government, rights organizations and the Cameroon Bar Association have condemned the act of bloodbath on the people of Gidado, describing it as outrageous.
Jennyhans Nde
