Bamenda Tense Amid Explosions and Separatist Lockdown

The current lockdown, enforced by factions of the separatist movement seeking an independent Ambazonian state, has left the streets of Bamenda and other towns in the North West Region eerily deserted. Conflicting directives from different separatist groups add to the confusion. While one faction, led by Samuel Sako, has called for an end to the lockdown, another faction, the Ambazonian Defense Forces (ADF) under Ayaba Cho Lucas, insists it will last until Friday, September 20th.

The uncertainty has left many locals afraid to leave their homes, fearing violence or crossfire. One resident summarized the situation, saying, "When two drivers on a vehicle seat disagree on the direction, what can the passenger do but wait?"

The impact of the lockdown has been severe:

• Economic Disruption: Local businesses and trade have been severely affected, leading to financial strain.
• Social Life: People are unable to engage in normal daily activities, further isolating them socially.
• Psychological Toll: The prolonged conflict, now stretching into its ninth year, is taking a significant mental health toll on the population.

This latest escalation comes after an explosive device detonated at Finance Junction, followed by further violence, including the fatal shooting of a motorbike rider by military forces. The rider was reportedly shot near Bamenda Hill as he attempted to overtake a military truck. Eyewitnesses say the military did not verify whether he was a civilian or a separatist fighter before opening fire. The young man was rushed to the hospital, where he later died.

The ongoing armed conflict between Cameroonian government forces and separatists continues to claim lives, especially among young people, raising growing concerns for civilian safety. Many residents of Bamenda and the surrounding areas are left wondering when, or if, the violence will come to an end.