A single family has been completely erased in what authorities described as a “horrifying” and “deeply painful” attack on the Fulani community of Gidado, Ndu Subdivision, in Cameroon’s North West region.
The early-morning attack on Wednesday, January 14, left about 14 people dead, most of them women and children, according to the Mayor of Ndu, Abdou Kanfon Borno.
At least six houses were also burnt, 15 cattle killed by the attackers who were well-armed, according to the North West Governor, Adolphe Lele L’Afrique.
Among the victims was the entire household of a man named Alhadji Tadido. The Mayor said that Mr Tadido’s mother, his two wives, and his five children were all killed.
Tragedy had already visited Tadido’s family when he died months ago from injuries sustained in a previous attack.
The recent massacre has further devastated the community, which is already caught in a cycle of violence.
Mayor Kanfon Borno condemned the repeated targeting of civilians, saying such acts “defy every logic of humanity.”
The Mayor said it was “disheartening to helplessly helplessly watch civilian populations perish before our very eyes,” and called the killings unacceptable under any circumstance.
He extended prayers for the recovery of the injured, two of whom are reported in critical condition, and asked for divine strength for the bereaved.
The attack has prompted calls for an end to the bloodshed.
“Ndu Subdivision is tired of these killings and the wanton destruction of property,” Mayor Kanfon Borno said, adding that the population yearns for lasting peace.
