By Bakah Derick
Cameroon's government has confirmed that not fewer than eight persons have died following rush to have access into the recently constructed Olembe Stadium. According to the Minister of Communication Rene Emmanuel Sadii, 38 have be injured with seven in very critical condition.
Those injured the Minister said are under emergency care in hospitals around Yaounde; the nation's capital on the instructions of Cameroon's President Paul Biya.
While extending the condolences from the President to the bereaved families and encouragement for quick recovery to the injured, the Minister has invited all to remain responsible, discipline and civic as the Africa Cup of Nations campaign (AFCON) continuous in Cameroon.
Observers have blamed the incident on the unwieldy and slow procedure fans go through to watch matches especially in Yaounde when host Cameroon is playing.
"I think this is because the procedure to enter the stadium is very cumbersome. At least the security to should have known that many will be coming to watch the Cameroon game. On the opening day the stadium was opened early and we didn't have this. I think it is security mistake which has taken lives and those responsible should be called to order. We know that Cameroon was playing and with football enthusiasm I see here, they should have expected a large crowd and necessary dispositions to facilitate entry taken." Asare James noted.
"CAF is aware of the incident that took place at Olembe Stadium during the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations fixture between hosts Cameroon and Comoros tonight, 24 January 2022. CAF is currently investigating the situation and trying to get more details on what transpired. We are in constant communication with Cameroon government and the Local Organizing Committee. Tonight, the CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe sent the General Secretary, Veron Mosengo-Omba to visit the supporters in hospital in Yaoundé." A CAF statement said
Cameroon will later beat Comoros 2-1 in the game to qualify for the last eight.