North West Region, Cameroon — The celebration of the 52nd National Day on May 20th was marked by both festivity and violence across various subdivisions in the North West Region, underscoring the ongoing tensions and sharply contrasting with administrative declarations that “the situation is stabilizing.”
In Boyo Division, the day was overshadowed by the tragic deaths of two individuals in Belo subdivision. The killings of Mayor Ngong Innocent and the Inspector for Basic Education Aghi Aaron were part of a larger pattern of violence that has plagued the region. Meanwhile, in Njinikom subdivision, exchanges of gunfire between the military and suspected separatists created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, partly disrupting the day’s events.
Fundong, the chief town of Boyo Division, witnessed heavy gunfire in the early hours of the morning. Security forces successfully repelled the attackers, allowing the National Day celebrations to proceed as planned. The Senior Divisional Officer for Boyo, Moussa Saidou, addressing the public, emphasized the importance of vigilance in contributing to the security and development of the division. “It is time for all of us to remain vigilant so that we can contribute to securing and developing Boyo Division,” he stated.
In Mbengwi, the chief town of Momo Division, the celebrations unfolded more peacefully. The event, presided over by the Senior Divisional Officer Benoit Nicaise Etaba, featured a military and civilian march-past, starting with a prayer for the nation and concluding with a community feast. This display of unity and hope stood in stark contrast to the violence in nearby areas.
Tubah subdivision, however, was under a cloud of tension following a deadly attack just days before the National Day, which claimed the lives of five people. During the celebrations, local leaders urged the population to report any suspicious activities to prevent such tragedies from recurring. This call for vigilance aimed to ensure the safety and security of the community in the future.
The contrasting experiences of different subdivisions on National Day reflect the complex and volatile situation in the North West Region. While some areas managed to celebrate in relative peace, others were starkly reminded of the ongoing conflict and the urgent need for a resolution.
