Rector of Yaounde I University Suspends Lecturer

A philosophy lecturer at the University of Yaounde I by the name of Fridolin Nke has found himself suspended from his position. The decision was made by the university’s Rector, Prof. Maurice Sosso, following serious allegations levelled against Nke. These allegations include defamation and the issuing of death threats, among other charges.

In a communiqué signed on August 11, 2023, Prof. Sosso terminated the employment contract linking the philosophy lecturer to the University. Sosso states that the dismissal follows “acts of defamation, insults, foul language, and intimidation (death threats)”.

Nke stated in a post on social media that he is determined to fight with his boss. Summoned with two other teachers to the university’s disciplinary council on several occasions, the native of Lekie insisted that they would not appear.

“Maurice (horé) Sosso, I won’t come! Ndock Ndock Gaston and Mrs. Mandob Damaris Enyegue will not come! As the leader of the group, I inform you of this,” he said challenging the invitation by Sosso.

“Quickly sign your nonsense suspension decision, and we find ourselves very quickly at the university, at the rectorate, or/and at home for the body-to-body… The Secret Service should take note of this. I will make Sosso do what his heart of hatred wishes,” he went on.

Nke, however, noted in his outing that “nobody, not even Fame Ndongo, nor Paul Biya, nor even Pope Francis, can do anything for me to calm my hatred and my anger against the rector.”

It is not immediately clear what the next course of action is, given that Nke has by his refusal to appear before a disciplinary board, shown insubordination. Also, it is interesting to see what would happen if he refused to obey the suspension, and what mechanisms Sosso will use to ensure that it is enforced.