I’m Not a Religious Person, I Advocate for Traditional Heritage— Hiram Samuel

By Njodzeka Kernyuy

In Cameroon, where religion holds significant sway in politics, Front Democrats Party presidential candidate, Hiram Samuel Iyodi, stands in contrast.  

While the nation predominantly embraces Christianity and Islam, the 37-year-old aligns with neither.  

“I am not religious,” he declared during an interview on MMI’s political program, “Road To Etoudi”.

His stance starkly contrasts with that of many voters, who often attribute bad governance, underdevelopment, and corruption to “the devil” rather than holding leaders accountable.  

To Hiram, religion is the opium of the masses. “I believe religion is used to divide people,” he asserted, describing it as dogma rather than genuine love or faith.  

Hiram says many think of religion as carrying religious names or attending churches. He chooses spirituality over all of that.

“I am spiritual, not religious,” he clarifies. “I believe in God, but in a traditional way.”  

His perspective is deeply rooted in African identity. He champions the continent’s indigenous values, which he says truly define him.  

“I advocate for our traditional heritage as Africans. My father is a traditional ruler, and I was raised to question ideologies.”  

From Christianity to Traditionalist

As a child, Hiram was a devoted churchgoer. But when he moved to Canada for studies, he began questioning his faith.

Eventually, he abandoned Christianity altogether.  

“I believe God has a plan for everyone,” he said. Now vying for Cameroon’s presidency, Hiram hopes to inspire Africans to reclaim their spiritual heritage.

Though he no longer prays in churche, he respects others’ religious choices.  

“In politics, when you face challenges, you need to believe in something greater—something that gives you strength and direction in dark times,” he explained.  

Religion in Cameroon: A Double-Edged Sword

Cameroon officially recognizes only 37 churches, yet thousands operate illegally. Despite government crackdowns, many unregistered churches continue to function.  

Mainstream denominations—Catholic, Presbyterian, Baptist, and Islamic—enjoy political influence, often serving as conduits for policy implementation.  

But for Hiram, true spirituality must be rooted in Africa’s intrinsic values—the heritage ingrained in every child born on the continent.