By Soulemanu Bouba
The call for a peaceful protest by the North West House of Chiefs to denounce the killing of 10 persons at Nacho junction on July 16, 2023, in Bamenda saw the boycott of many traditional rulers.
At the Bamenda Commercial Avenue Grandstand where the protesters gathered, only three chiefs answered present — including the Fon of Bambalang who is also the president of the North West House of Chiefs, Fon Yakum Kevin, his secretary, Fon Bambi, and Fon Azehfor III of Nkwen.
Fon Yakum Kiven Fon who was released from Separatist captivity on Thursday, June 1, 2023, called for a street protest against Nacho killings. But only two other fons showed up
It is still not clear why the Fons who are members of the House of Chiefs turned down the call from their President.
Since the document announcing the peaceful march went viral, criticisms have been pouring in with many saying they will cease to respect their Fons if they are seen marching in the streets.
The Fon explained that the march was in solidarity with the families of those who lost loved ones in the Nacho Junction Massacre that left 10 persons dead on Sunday, July 16, 2023.
Few council workers and a handful of commercial bike riders animated the show
Three traditional rulers were noticed at the protest, including Fon Yakum Kelvin Shomintang of Bambalang who heads the House of Chiefs.
Most Bamenda residents have described the protest call as ‘unnecessary seeking of political relevance in a volatile situation.’
“They are just seeking political relevance. I could not risk my life involving myself in such,” said a source Bamenda city.
Commenting on the involvement of traditional rulers he added, “I can not believe that our traditional rulers have become toys in the hands of politicians. Calling Fons to march on the street is sacrilegious.”
The protest earlier envisaged from the City Chemist to the Governor’s office at Upstation, ended from City to the Bamenda grandstand where speeches were made denouncing the Sunday killings.
Protesters marched with placards carrying messages which includes ‘stop the killings’ amongst others.
Mimi Mefo Info
