Ndewa Derogy, a US citizen previously detained at Kondengui Central Prison in Yaoundé, Cameroon, has been released and is now reunited with his family in the United States.
“The U.S. government intervened on our behalf at the highest level of government in Yaoundé. Finally, my husband was released from the hands of the Ekoumou family,” said Dr. Amber Ndewa, wife of Ndewa Derogy, in a statement to MMI. “We are now in the U.S. together,” she added.
U.S. Couple Detained in Cameroon Over Property Dispute
Mr. and Dr. Ndewa were detained in Cameroon two months ago following a dispute involving Cameroon’s Ambassador to France, André Magnus Ekoumou, and his wife, Claire Ekoumou. The conflict stemmed from a property in Yaoundé rented by the Ndewas, which allegedly belonged to the Ekoumous.
After the couple made renovations to the property, they were reportedly denied occupancy. In response, the Ndewas sought a refund. During a discussion related to the issue, the couple recorded a video, which was later shared on social media without their consent. The video’s release reportedly triggered legal action, leading to their arrest.
Dr. Amber Ndewa Released First
Initial investigations revealed that the Ndewas were not responsible for the video’s distribution. As a result, Cameroonian authorities released Dr. Amber Ndewa. She subsequently returned to the U.S. with the couple’s three children, while her husband remained in detention.
Further diplomatic engagement, reportedly at senior levels between Washington and Yaoundé, eventually led to Mr. Derogy’s release. He has since joined his family in Idaho.
U.S. Senate Condemns Detention, Calls for Policy Reevaluation
While the release of the Ndewas has been welcomed, members of the U.S. Senate have expressed strong concerns over the incident. Senator Jim Risch, Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, sharply criticized the Cameroonian government’s handling of the case.
“Let’s be clear: Cameroon’s treatment of the Ndewas was outrageous—denying consular access, defying legal norms, and pursuing a politically charged prosecution,” Risch stated. “This should be a flashing red light for any American thinking of travelling or investing there. The family is reunited—but never should’ve been torn apart. Our relationship with Cameroon needs a serious reckoning.”
According to Risch, the detention created a “scary situation” and may have long-term effects on U.S.-Cameroon relations.
As of now, the Cameroon Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of External Relations have not issued any official statements regarding the matter.
