A tragic accident on November 22, 2024, in Mbalmayo claimed the life of a young student struck by a government convoy transporting Ministers Nganou Djoumessi and Paul Motaze. The boy was on his way to school when the incident occurred on National Road 9, en route to the inauguration of a road project in Sangmelima.
Eyewitnesses revealed that a heavy transport truck within the convoy hit the student near Ngallan public school, resulting in fatal injuries. The tragic event unfolded as the convoy headed to launch the Olounou-Oveng road construction project.
Upon learning of the accident, both ministers halted the convoy, expressed their condolences, and assessed the situation. The scene was quickly secured by authorities, and the student’s body was removed from the road.
The incident has sparked widespread concern over the dangers of speeding and reckless driving often linked to government convoys. While the ministers were en route to a ceremonial event, the tragedy overshadowed their mission, prompting questions about the safety protocols of official convoys.
Public outrage has followed, highlighting the need for stricter measures to safeguard schoolchildren and civilians. Many have called for better enforcement of road safety laws to prevent similar incidents in the future.