Nanje Leonard Nakeri Nambere, a controversial figure who once led a separatist militia in Cameroon, has been spotted in the United Kingdom, with suggestions his trip was facilitated by an Ambazonia separatist group.
MMI’s investigation confirms that Nambere, who was known as “General Nambere” during his time with the Ambazonia separatists, was seen in Croydon, London.
Nambere’s arrival in the UK has sparked questions, given his history of switching allegiances. The Republic of Ambazonia (RoA), a Cameroonian diaspora separatist group, reportedly facilitated his move.
Florentine Fonche, who represents the Republic of Ambazonia group, affirmed Nambere’s safety and security in a Facebook post, declaring, “I am pleased to officially confirm that General Nambere, my comrade brother and son, is presently situated in the United Kingdom, where he remains safe and secure. Demonstrating a steadfast commitment to peace, General Nambere has been in residence for over a week.”
The RoA also stated they are relocating former separatist fighters to Europe and the US. “Over 14 Ambazonians have relocated to Europe with my support,” Fonche said. “A contingent also journeyed to the United States, but tragically encountered losses.”
The group also asserted its involvement in a programme aimed at relocating former separatist fighters to Europe and America, stating, “it is noteworthy that a group of dedicated Ambazonians, numbering over 14, have relocated to Europe under the care of IPOA Europe, with my modest support. Additionally, a contingent has also journeyed to the United States, albeit encountering tragic losses along the way, a fact mourned by our community.”
Nambere’s Role in the Anglophone Crisis
Nambere was a prominent figure in the early days of the Anglophone Crisis, the armed conflict between the Cameroonian government and English-speaking separatists. He led the Ambazonia Restoration Force (ARF), a militia loyal to the Interim Government of Ambazonia. Nambere was active in several regions and accused of human rights abuses, including extortion, torture, and civilian killings. However, Nambere has denied targeting civilians in past video statements.
Shifting Allegiances
In 2019, Nambere crossed into Nigeria, purportedly to meet sponsors for weapons procurement, which never materialised, leaving him stranded and disillusioned. Later that year, he and another self-proclaimed leader, Success Nkongho, surrendered to the Cameroonian government, renouncing the separatist movement. They were subsequently transported alongside 87 other refugees to Yaounde, where they were received by government officials.
Nambere Becomes Government Ally
After surrendering, Nambere became a government collaborator. He assisted security forces in targeting remaining separatist fighters and appeared in propaganda videos. Nambere travelled throughout the conflict zone, urging fighters to lay down their arms.
Disillusionment and Escape
However, Nambere reportedly grew dissatisfied with his treatment by the government. In February 2021, he expressed regret for surrendering to a My Media Prime Television programme. “I regret why I dropped my weapons,” he said.
Nambere’s allegiance wavered once more as he fled to Nigeria, expressing grievances over mistreatment by the government and issuing threats in a video, brandishing AK47 guns, and demanding resettlement which included resettlement in the UK or US, a passport, and financial assistance. purportedly from the Cameroonian authorities.
Nambere then fled to Nigeria once again. In a video, he threatened to return to armed conflict if the Cameroonian government did not meet his demands,
Nambere’s recent appearance in the UK raises questions about his relationship with the Cameroonian government and the RoA’s role in his relocation.
