2024-03-26 10:35:21
This is terrible and unexpected news coming to us from the United Arab Emirates. Francis Tabi, a fellow Cameroonian from Ossing in the Mamfe district, tragically lost his life this morning in an accident on the oil platform where he worked in Abu Dhabi. A drama which plunges the Cameroonian community into mourning and incomprehension.
A brutal and shocking death on the job
As 237online.com exclusively reveals, the drama unfolded in the early hours of the morning on the offshore oil platform of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), the Emirati oil giant. Francis Tabi, who had worked there for several years as a technician, was the victim of an accident whose circumstances remain to be clarified.
According to initial information gleaned by our editorial staff, he was violently struck by a piece of equipment during a routine maintenance operation. Despite the rapid intervention of emergency services, he could not be resuscitated. A death as sudden as it was shocking for this father described by his relatives as a “tireless and conscientious worker”.
The Cameroonian community in Abu Dhabi in shock
The news of this brutal death caused an immense wave of emotion and sadness within the Cameroonian community, which is very present in Abu Dhabi and the Persian Gulf. On social networks, messages of condolences and tributes are pouring in to salute the memory of this “humble and valiant compatriot who left too soon”.
Originally from the village of Ossing in the district of Mamfe (South-West region), Francis Tabi was known and appreciated for his associative commitment to serving the diaspora. An active member of several nationals’ circles, he was always on the front line to help and guide new arrivals. His disappearance leaves a great void and many orphans.
An open investigation, the repatriation of the body expected
Faced with this tragedy, the Cameroonian embassy in Abu Dhabi took up the matter. According to our information, an investigation has been opened in coordination with the Emirati authorities to shed light on the exact circumstances of the accident and identify possible responsibilities. The company ADNOC, renowned for its high safety standards, will have to provide explanations.
At the same time, steps are underway to organize the repatriation of Francis Tabi’s remains to his native village of Ossing where he should be buried. His relatives are also awaiting details on the compensation to which his family should be entitled. One thing is certain: he will not soon be forgotten by all those who crossed his path.
This tragedy is also a cruel reminder of the risks of the profession and the harsh reality of African workers on the Gulf oil platforms. Far from their loved ones, they work hard to support their families, sometimes at the risk of their lives. Francis Tabi paid the ultimate price. May his soul rest in peace. All our condolences to his family and loved ones who have suffered so hard.