One of Cameroon’s most venerated Magistrates, Ayah Paul Abine has been laid to rest. His burial witness a massive turnout from members of the judiciary, lawyers, family members and politicians in the country.
He died last December 25, 2024 at the age of 74.
His burial on saw his corpse being brought to the Buea court of Appeal premise where his colleagues paid their last tribute.
From there, his corpse was taken to the Buea St. Anthony’s Parish Lower Farms Buea.
There, the late Ayah was remembered for his good and firm good practices.
Drawing inspiration from Psalms 23, the preacher said late Justice Ayah Paul was driven by faith and not fear. While praying for his soul, the priest said Ayah Paul is not embarking on the journey alone, for God is with him.
“His life is testimony that God doesn’t abandon those who seek and trust in him,” said the officiating priest.
“Despite his career profile and achievements, he was always humble,” said the priest, referring to late Justice Ayah Paul.
They said he stood for justice and sought the truth at the detriment of his own life.
Michele Ndoki Explores Ayah’s Legacy
Michele Ndoki, a lawyer and activist, paid tribute to the late Justice Ayah Paul Abine in a Facebook post following his funeral. She highlighted the challenges he faced, pointing out the bullet holes still visible on his home in Buea as a reminder of his struggles.
““At the funeral of our late Justice Ayah Paul Abine. Bullet holes are still visible on the walls of his house in Buea,” She said. “He will have personified steadfastness in allegiance to the values of justice and truth until his last day. Suffered the bites of injustice, pettiness and cowardice for the rest of his life.”
Ndoki described Ayah Paul as a man dedicated to justice and truth, despite the hardships he endured. She noted that while he suffered from injustice and persecution, many continue to respect and honor his memory. She expressed confidence that, in time, his legacy would be defined by the truth he stood for.
“It remains that many remember him, mourn him, respect him and have come to honor his memory. Over time, only the truth will remain. Farewell, Pa’a, Sir, My Lord.”
Her statement reinforces Ayah Paul’s reputation as a steadfast advocate for justice, whose impact remains significant even after his passing.
Ayah Was Not Just an Activist—Barrister Agbor Balla
Another lawyer that remarkably celebrated Ayah Paul is Barrister Agbor Balla. He convened lawyers in his residence to celebrate the caliber of lawyer and magistrate Ayah was.
According to Balla, Ayah was not just an activist. “he was a beacon of hope, a voice for the voiceless, and a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity.” He said.
“I had the profound privilege of sharing moments with him, both in times of triumph and in the darkest of hours. One of the most memorable moments was in 2001, when I was called to the Cameroon Bar as a lawyer. Justice Ayah presided over the ceremony, and his joy was palpable.” Balla added.
He talks of his good moments with Ayah Paul and also remembered how their paths were crossed.
Common Path
Agbor Balla, like Ayah Paul Was also arrested and detained for eighth months at the start of the ongoing Anglophone crisis.
“His unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and the rights of the Anglophone community inspired everyone around him. He carried the weight of our collective struggle with dignity and courage, never losing sight of the brighter future we all fought for.” He said.
To him, Ayah’s life was a testament to the power of perseverance. He said Ayah stood firm in his beliefs, even when the cost was great.
“His words, his actions, and his presence reminded us all that freedom is worth fighting for, no matter the odds. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy lives on in the hearts of those he touched and in the movement he helped shape,” Balla added.
He promised to carry the torch Ayah lit and will continue to strive for the justice and equality you so passionately believed in.
“Your memory will forever guide us, and your spirit will remain a source of strength in our ongoing struggle,” he said.
Life of Ayah Paul
He was born in Akwaya, Many Division of the Southwest region.
Justice Ayah studied and went to become a chief justice in one of the most prestigious judiciary institutions, the Supreme Court.
He also play vital role in the politics of Cameroon. He was an MP of the ruling Cameroon People Democratic Movement, CPDM.
In 2008, he was the only MP from the ruling party who voted no to the removal of the presidential term limit.
Ayah equally contested President under the banner of the People’s Action Party.
When the Anglophone crisis started, he was working at the supreme Court. He was arrested and detained for showing support to the aggrieved Anglophones. He was later released and forcefully sent on retirement. His finances were blocked in the bank. He complained several times of not having access to his money to seek medical assistance.
His health was deteriorating, and he later passed on to eternity last year.
Across the board, he has been praised for exemplary leadership and fighting for justice.
