The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres has expressed his condolences to victims of a school attack in Kumba, Cameroon, and their acquaintances.
Expressing shock over the incident that happened in the country’s troubled South West region, the UN scribe noted that “… The attack is another disturbing reminder of the exacting heavy toll on civilians, including children, many of whom have been deprived of their right to education.”
“Attacks on education facilities are a serious violation of children’s rights,” Guterres added.
On behalf of the UN SG, a statement by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General read, “… the UN urges the Cameroonian authorities to conduct a thorough investigation to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.”
Guterres also “… calls on all armed actors to refrain from attacks against civilians and to respect international humanitarian and international human rights law.”
Urging the Cameroon government and separatist militias in the North West and South West regions to answer the repeated calls for a ceasefire, “… He reiterates the availability of the United Nations to support an inclusive dialogue process leading to a resolution of the crisis in the North-West and South West regions of Cameroon,” the statement said.
The UN’s call is not the first of its kind from the agency or other international stakeholders.
For four years now, soldiers and separatist fighters have been at loggerheads, disregarding all calls and appeals for a ceasefire and inclusive dialogue.
With calls and appeals becoming routine, many fear the crisis which has seen thousands dead and millions affected is yet to see its worse days due to neglect.
Mimi Mefo Info
