Chief Njie Mbonde Albert, traditional ruler of Membea Bokwaongo village in Buea, South West Region, has extended heartfelt condolences to Fon Azehfor III of Nkwen in Bamenda, North West Region, following a deadly flooding incident that claimed several lives in the fondom.
The tragedy occurred on Thursday, March 26, 2026, when heavy rains overwhelmed a temporary pedestrian bridge installed to facilitate movement during ongoing construction works, causing it to collapse and sweeping away victims.
Authorities said the tragic incident left four people dead, while five others were rescued, calling on the population to remain calm and vigilant.
In a condolence message, Chief Njie Mbonde described the incident as a painful loss not only for the bereaved families but for the entire community. “It is with immense shock that we learned of the collapse of the makeshift bridge in your Fondom, which led to the loss of lives,” he wrote to Fon Azehfor III.
On behalf of the people of Membea Bokwaongo, the traditional ruler expressed solidarity with the people of Nkwen, stating: “We are deeply saddened and share in your grief. Grief is the price we pay for the love we once enjoyed.” He also offered prayers for strength and healing, adding: “We join you and your people in prayer that Jehovah and our ancestors may grant us the power and comfort in this trying time.”
Construction firm to review safety measures
In a separate statement, construction firm Société BUNS expressed regret over the incident, noting that the temporary crossing was “overwhelmed by the force of the flow” following what it described as “exceptionally heavy rains”.
The company extended condolences to the bereaved families and reaffirmed its solidarity with the affected community. “No circumstance can lessen the value of the lives lost, and we honor their memory with humility and respect,” the firm stated, while assuring residents that “your safety remains at the core of all ongoing works.”
BUNS announced immediate corrective actions, including reinforcing all temporary crossings, conducting a “comprehensive technical review” of provisional structures, and strengthening monitoring and emergency response systems. The company also pledged transparency and cooperation with authorities, vowing that “every measure will be taken to ensure that such an incident does not reoccur.”
The firm further called for “unity, calm, and collective responsibility” as Bamenda mourns the victims of the Nkwen bridge tragedy.
