UB GEOLOGIST REFUTES IMMINENT ERUPTION OF BUEA MOUNTAIN

The Dean of the Faculty of Science of the University of Buea,has refuted allegations about the imminent eruption of the Buea Mountain, Cameroon one of the most active volcanoes in Africa.

Prof Ayonghe: No Reason for Panic

Professor Samuel Ndonwi Ayonghe was reacting to fear and panic that gripped Buea and its environs since January 4 2016. “The Department of Geology of the University under the supervision of the Vice Chancellor is monitoring the activities of the mountain using satellites and there are no indications that there would be an eruption in the near future,” the university Don said, January 7.

He added that the temperature of the mountain and other features have witnessed no changes to cause for alarm. Prof Ayonghe said no eruptions or tremors that have been witnessed. “ Nothing actually happened,” he insisted.  He disclosed that other equipment to further monitor the activities of the Buea Mountain, are due to be installed in the course of the year.

Bush Fire that Caused Fear

The rumours on the imminent eruption of the mountain follows bush fires that were spotted by locals and residents on Buea Mountain,January 4. According to the Chief of Molyko in Buea the bush fire was apparently in preparation for this year’s edition of the Mountain raise.

“We have witnessed no tremor. The bush fire is to surely prepare the path to be used for the upcoming Guinness Mount Cameroon race of hope, slated for February 20 2015.  We would have been informed by authorities in case there was any need to worry,” Chief Esuka Etonge said.

City of Buea: Business As Usual

The Buea Council had earlier called on the population to calmly go about their daily businesses in all tranquility. Attempts at getting to the Geological center in Ekona, Fako Division which also monitors the Buea Mountain have not so far been fruitful.

The Buea mountain is said to have erupted seven times in 100 years, with the latest eruption being that of 1999 (March 28-April 22) and in the year 2000 (28 May-19 June).