By Njodzeka Kernyuy
The recent events surrounding the detention and release of comedian Pelagie Ngong Ndu, known as Jesus Girl, have raised concerns about Cameroonians’ silence in times of injustice.
Jesus Girl was detained last week at a Gendarmerie Brigade in Buea over a 10 million francs CFA business deal that went wrong.
According to reports, she advertised a fraudulent company, Vadispay, on her page. A follower expressed interest and a willingness to invest 10 million francs CFA.
Jesus Girl then acted as an intermediary by receiving and channeling the money to the alleged exchange company.
They were scammed. Following the transaction, the people who received the money via mobile transfer disappeared. However, the investor, known as Mama Dollar, could not retrieve her funds.
As a result, she reported Jesus Girl to the Gendarmerie, leading to her arrest and detention for four days.
While in detention, Jesus Girl sought help from popular blogger Fuchor (Lekeaka Destiny) to raise awareness about the issue and seek justice.
Fuchor launched a GoFundMe campaign in agreement with Jesus Girl, asking people to donate money to secure her release.
According to Fuchor, the woman who filed the complaint had requested at least 5 million francs CFA before Jesus Girl could be set free.
After regaining her freedom, Jesus Girl went online and, in an emotional video, questioned why people who donated money for her release did not investigate the matter.
“A young girl requested help, and instead of you investigating, you started donating,” said the 28-year-old.
“All I needed was justice,” she added, using harsh words like, “Why are you guys dull and slow?”
That statement, which many found insulting, has not been well received.
Fuchor, who stood by her during difficult times, provided proof that Jesus Girl had requested financial assistance leaving her to face her future battles alone.
Despite the various statements from Fuchor, Jesus Girl, and Sally Ndape—a human rights advocate who contributed to her release—one alarming issue remains: justice.
Pelagie Ngong says she was detained for more than 48 hours, exceeding the time limit prescribed by the law.
However, many view the situation as a business deal gone wrong. The story highlights the failure of the authorities to protect victims in such cases.
Based on both sides of the story, Pelagie Ngong and the investor are both victims. Observers say it was the responsibility of the authorities to investigate and arrest the actual defaulters.
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