GHS Benakuma Principal Pleads for Help Following Kidnapping

Mr. Tem Gerald Akebai Calls on Local Authorities, Friends, and Well-wishers to Save His Life

Benakuma, NW Region, Cameroon — A tear-provoking video surfaced early this morning, featuring Mr. Tem Gerald Akebai, the principal of Government High School (GHS) Benakuma, in the Menchum valley subdivision of the NW Region of Cameroon. In the distressing video, Mr. Akebai pleads for immediate intervention, asserting that he is “breaking down.”

The heart-wrenching video comes in the wake of a kidnapping incident involving Mr. Akebai, who was captured by unidentified armed men that he refers to as “fighters.” This abduction took place on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, as he was on his way to his duty post in Benakuma.

“OMG I have worked for this man in Wum. This issue of kidnapping for ransom should stop, please, I don’t know what these boys are turning into, it’s very bad civilians are really suffering. May God almighty help you, sir,” reacted Nfor Dominic upon seeing the video.

Mr. Akebai’s emotional appeal for assistance in the video highlights the dire security challenges currently gripping the region. He implores local authorities, friends, and well-wishers to intervene promptly and save his life as he endures the harrowing ordeal at the hands of his captors. The principal’s kidnapping underscores the growing instability in the Anglophone Regions of Cameroon and the urgent need for a resolution to the ongoing crisis.

Whatever the situation, Afoukezi Nyang had a simple plea of their own “Release Mr Tem Gerald. This is disheartening.”

The crisis in the Anglophone Regions has been characterized by escalating violence, kidnappings, and conflict between government forces and separatist groups. Civilians, like Mr. Akebai, have often found themselves caught in the crossfire, enduring unimaginable hardships as they are caught between the warring factions.

Mr. Akebai’s situation has particularly struck a chord with the local community, particularly those who identify him as their erstwhile chemistry teacher.

“Weer God is this not Mr Tem Gerald my chemistry teacher?. Good help this man,” said Intong Ivo Nyoh on Facebook.

Meanwhile, Munjeh Serge Samba also wondered what the rationale was behind the kidnapping of a teacher by people who claim to be fighting for independence.

“Teaching an up coming generation now is a crime in Ambazonia. when u kidnap ur own n torture them, how is it advancing ur independence?”

As the principal of GHS Benakuma, he is regarded as an illustrious and dedicated servant of the community, known for his commitment to education and the betterment of his students. His heartfelt plea reflects the desperation that many individuals in the Anglophone Regions are experiencing due to the ongoing conflict.

Local authorities and the government are now facing mounting pressure to step up efforts to secure the release of Mr. Akebai and put an end to the protracted turmoil that has plagued the region. The video serves as a potent reminder that the situation in the Anglophone Regions is reaching a breaking point, necessitating immediate and effective action to bring about peace and stability.

The abduction of Mr. Akebai is not an isolated incident but part of a larger pattern of violence and instability in the NW Region of Cameroon. It is crucial for all stakeholders, including government authorities, community leaders, and international organisations, to work collectively to find a sustainable solution to the crisis and ensure the safety and well-being of individuals like Mr. Akebai.

As the nation watches and waits for developments in this distressing situation, the urgency of ending the troubles in the Anglophone Regions is more evident than ever. Mr. Akebai’s heartfelt plea is a stark reminder that the lives of countless Cameroonians are at stake, and the time for action is now.

Kate Bih contributed to this report