Fon Richard Muntong III, the traditional ruler of Bamessing village in Ngoketunja Division of the North West Region, has asked Ambazonia separatist fighters to drop their weapons and surrender or they will be banished from the village.
The Fon, who now lives in Douala, made the call in a press release addressed to sons and daughters of Bamessing at home and abroad.
This is not the first time he is making such an outing. In 2023, he threatened to banish the fighters if they failed to surrender.
The call has been unyielding as separatists have remained active in the area.
Bamessing hosts one of the most prominent separatist groups in Ngoketunjia Division.
In what appears to be a renewed call, the Fon directed his energy to “particularly the so-called Amba boys, who have been engaged in a conflict without purpose for the past eight years.”
He said, “It is with a heavy heart that I remind you of the suffering inflicted on our people during this time.”
Call to Lay Down Arms
Describing the activities of the fighters as terrorism, he urged them to lay down their arms and embrace peace by joining the Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration Commission centres.
“Should you require guidance on how to proceed, do not hesitate to contact me; I will assist you throughout the process,” he sounded.
Fighters Given Till December 31 to Surrender
Extending an olive branch to the fighters, he emphasized that December is a period of forgiveness, reconciliation, peace and love.
According to him, they should make a choice by laying their arms or face banishment
“You have until December 31, 2024, to drop your arms and seek refuge in the DDR centres,” he said.
“Failure to comply will lead to decisive actions from myself and the Nsei people will either expel you or hand you over to the authorities.”
He threatened traditional, administrative and legal sanctions in 2025 against families “whose children continue to participate in Amba activities”.
“Let us choose peace and development over violence,” he appealed, calling for the restoration of harmony in Bamessing.
