Bad memories and sorrows are what resonate in the minds of Wimbum community and humanity in general every February 14. But according to a lawyer, justice has been denied for the victims.
The day witnessed one of the most despicable tragedies in human history. The events took place in Ngarbuh, a remote community in Ndu, Donga Mantung Division of the North West Region.
On February 14, 2020, government soldiers armed to the teeth, aided by Fulani and local vigilante group members, invaded Ngarbuh. They killed in cold blood 22 civilians, amongst them 14 children and a pregnant woman.
“Bodies of some victims were found charred inside their homes. The killings shattered the community and sent shockwaves throughout the country,” Human Rights Watch said in a recent statement demanding justice for victims
The attack was a reprisal against the local community, which was suspected of harbouring separatist fighters.
Human rights reports established the community had no separatist base, contrary to earlier claims by the government in an attempt to cover up the atrocity.
Authorities were quick to construct a tomb on the mass grave of the victims but acted negligently in bringing perpetrators to book.
An investigation into the killings following international pressure led to the arrest of three soldiers. However, 17 Fulani militia and local vigilante group members implicated in the attack were shielded by the government as well as senior commanders of the army and the local administration, who allegedly gave the green light for the operation.
The three arrested soldiers were charged with murder before the Yaoundé military court in December 2020. The case has, however, not progressed for reasons unknown to justice defenders
JUSTICE DENIED
Today marks five years since the tragedy struck the local community.
The arrest of suspects was welcomed as a step towards rendering justice to victims and their families. However, five years down the line, the case appears missing with no attention given to it by powers that be.
Barrister Tamfu Richard is one of the lawyers holding brief for victims of the incident. In a chat with MMI, he said, “the case has really not evolved.”
Sounding uncomfortable with the delay in proceedings, the human rights lawyer stated, “Justice delayed is justice denied.
The case was lastly heard in October 2024.
According to Barrister Tamfu Richard, “The matter is next coming up on the 20th of February 2025.”
DOUBTS ON CAMEROON’S JUSTICE
Human Rights Watch, an international rights group has maintained a keen eye on the issue, raising alarm and demanding justice for victims.
Reminding the international community with detailed reports on the matter in a statement published today, February 14, the rights group said, “The glacial pace of the proceedings has victims’ families wondering if justice will ever be rendered.”
Doubting the action of Cameroon’s judiciary on the case, the group told government.
“The Ngarbuh trial is an opportunity for the government to show its people and the world it can hold its senior officers responsible.”
