Tensions are escalating in Bimbia, host to the historic slave trade site, as locals accuse Limbe III Divisional Officer (DO), Epole Verklin, of leveraging her position to promote the controversial leasing of the site to Gilga Tours, a private tourism company owned by Eric Igwacho.
The accusations have sparked widespread protests and raised questions about transparency and community inclusion in the management of the cultural heritage site.
Eric and Verklin are in a love relationship amid reports of a private wedding in 2024.
Eric reportedly divorced his former wife, Priscila Igwacho, with whom he has four children.
Allegations of Administrative Overreach
Bimbia indigenes have further criticised Epole Verkli for allegedly pressuring locals to accept a ministerial decision approving the development of the site by Gilga Tours.
Concerns about a conflict of interest have been amplified by reports of a personal relationship between Verklin and Igwacho, which became public in 2024.
Igwacho has faced scrutiny from Bimbia natives who say he is receiving preferential treatment from the DO.
Limbe III Mayor, Nseke Dibotti Luma, confirmed that pressure from the DO has included threats to villagers resisting the decision.
“We’ve received instructions from the DO to end protests and support the development project. Some villagers have even reported threats of arrest if they continue their opposition,” the mayor stated.
Bimbia Community Leaders Stand Their Ground
HRH Samuel Ipupa Ekum, Chief of Dikolo, a village encompassing the majority of the slave trade site, has denounced the alleged tactics employed to suppress opposition.
“This is our land, and we are committed to protecting it. Those using their authority to impose their interests should know we will not be intimidated. Our protests will continue until the right processes are followed,” he declared.
Protests have intensified, with villagers staging demonstrations outside the office of the Senior Divisional Officer of Fako.
They have also petitioned Cameroon’s Minister of Arts and Culture, with copies sent to the Presidency and the Ministry of Territorial Administration.
Bimbia Population’s Demand for Inclusion
The protesting villagers argue that while they do not oppose development, the process must be transparent and inclusive.
They have also called on Gilga Tours to engage with the community, clarify the project’s scope, and outline its benefits for locals.
“All we are asking is for Mr. Igwacho to follow due process,” Mayor Luma emphasized.
“He needs to explain the project to the communities, detail his investment plans, and show how the initiative will benefit both the area and the people. Only then can he earn the community’s trust and blessings.”
Gilga Tours Defends Its Position
In response to the backlash, Gilga Tours has denied allegations of improper conduct or government ceding of the site.
CEO Eric Igwacho however, clarified that the project is part of a public-private partnership with the Cameroonian government that aims to boost tourism.
“Our goal is to elevate the Bimbia Slave Trade Site to global recognition as a tourist destination,” Igwacho stated.
“The lease agreement is for 15 years, not 50 as some have claimed. It’s a partnership to develop and preserve the site.”
Whether the parties involved can reach a consensus remains uncertain, but the voices of the Bimbia community are calling for greater accountability and respect for their heritage.
