Balafon Director Cyrille Bojiko Survives Assassination Attempt in Douala

Prominent Cameroonian journalist and Director General of Balafon Media Group, Cyrille Bojiko, narrowly escaped an assassination attempt after an unidentified assailant stormed the group’s offices in Douala, issuing death threats and vandalizing property.

According to Balafon radio journalist Marie Flore Amassana, who spoke on the station’s Sacre Matin program on October 3, the attacker shattered glass windows and damaged Bojiko’s personal vehicle in what has been described as a direct attack on press freedom.

The station’s security apprehended the assailant and handed him to law enforcement but reportedly vowed to return armed once released, heightening concerns among media professionals.

This attack comes amid a tense political climate ahead of the October 12, 2025 presidential election, where journalists and media outlets face increased scrutiny and hostility.

Media advocates are calling for urgent measures to guarantee the safety of journalists and press institutions, warning that freedom of expression—one of the cornerstones of democracy—is under growing threat in Cameroon.

“This act sharply raises once again the issue of protecting media professionals in our country. The protection of people and property is an obligation of the State,” said presidential candidate, Serge Espoir Matomba in a post on Facebook.