Nkwato Solomon, the 2nd Deputy Mayor of Babessi Council in Ngoketunjia Division, tragically lost his life on Friday, March 22nd, 2024, in an incident involving Ambazonia separatist fighters.
“The assistant mayor of BABESSI council in BABESSI subdivision was shot dead in his own house by Amba boys,” a resident told MMI.
The recent incident adds to a long list of targeted killings that have caused a great deal of fear and uncertainty among Anglophones, shedding light on the persistent crisis that continues to affect the English-speaking regions of Cameroon.
The tragic incident occurred when Mr. Nkwato, a highly regarded individual known for his commitment to serving the public, was tragically shot at close range within the confines of his own home. Witnesses who spoke to MMI described a scene of utter chaos as the attackers made their escape, leaving the Deputy Mayor with severe injuries from which he died.
The community is grieving the loss of a dedicated advocate who worked tirelessly to enhance the lives of local residents.
The Anglophone Crisis arises from the historical neglect of English-speaking regions in Cameroon, a country where French is the dominant language. In 2016, tensions reached a boiling point as teachers and lawyers from the Anglophone community took to the streets to demand greater recognition for their language and legal system. The government’s strong response to these protests sparked a movement for independence in the English-speaking regions. A small group of armed individuals and their supporters in the diaspora, known as the Ambazonians, subsequently hijacked this peaceful movement.
The conflict has escalated into a violent confrontation between the Ambazonian fighters and Cameroonian security forces. Ordinary civilians have tragically become victims of violence and displacement, caught in the midst of a devastating crossfire.
The Babessi Council and surrounding areas are now faced with the challenging task of healing and moving forward after the unfortunate loss of Deputy Mayor Nkwato. The urgency of finding a peaceful resolution to the Anglophone Crisis is highlighted by his unfortunate passing. Dialogue and a sincere effort to address the underlying issues are crucial for Cameroon to attain enduring peace and stability in its English-speaking regions.
