El Had Baba Amadou Danpullo: Promoting Educational Research For Development

It is a truth nationally accepted in Cameroon that business does not mix with academia. This is more so because the two activities have been made to run parallel. The academic class since made the business class fell inferior and society operated as if business had nothing to offer the academia.

It was not until two decades ago that the Harvard University in the United States of America started research and studies on how university research could be used or exploited by the business community to improve the lot of society. This research seem to have produced a lot of results as the end product of every university research or study is the improvement of the business climate. Today the relationship between the business class and the university is very cordial.

Enterprise development has become a key factor in the functioning universities today. When the University of Buea was created Anglophone elites made it a point of duty that to bring in businessmen and women into the endowment fund committee that help build the University of Buea. The endowment fund was a classic example of a perfect relationship between business and the university. Since then, businessmen and women have not only been interested in what happens in the university but also on the products that the university produces in terms of research. In naming the University of Bamenda the University of the Future, government’s intention is that the university responds to the needs of the community. A university is a means to an end, not an end in itself. One of such rapprochements was demonstrated in triumphant detail when last July 13, 2012, El Hadj Amadou Danpullo was invited as chief launcher at a book launch at Amphi 750 of the University of Buea. The book which is a compilation of research results by members of the academia in the university of Buea made business to mix with academic freely. During the launching Baba Danpullo offered over 1 million FCFA to the organizers. The book: Cameroon: A country at crossroads – An Anthology has been edited b Cornelius Mbifang Lambi, Prof of Geography in the University of Buea. El Hadj Baba Danpullo who is the President, Board of Directors of Cameroon Tea Estate CTE, is a clear proof that both the university and the enterprise are concerned about Cameroon becoming an emerging country in 2035. During the book launch, El Hadj Danpullo stressed the fact that it was important for the university to contribute to the development of Cameroon in all perspectives. His views were collaborated by the Nigerian Consul General to the North West and South West Regions of Cameroon who stressed that the purpose of every educational research is to better the lives of the people in the community.

After so many years of supporting direct development, El Hadj Baba Danpullo has moved to another level now, that of supporting education research. By identifying with university research Danpullo is confirming President Biya’s policies of greater realizations by enabling the university and the business class come together and support government.

Danpullo The Philanthropist

That Baba Danpullo came to Buea to promise his support to the university class, only goes to confirm his philanthropy. He demonstrated this philanthropy during the last presidential election when Baba Danpullo supported Biya’s campaign with over 100 million. He did not only end at giving. He mobilized all the North West elites to contribute over 500 million for Biya’s campaign. His charity does not only end here. Each village or community that sends him an appeal ends up receiving financial asstance. Baba Danpullo has promised to come up with an elite association in the North West so as to canalize development efforts in the North West. His tea estate recruits over 5000 youths and this is development as each youth puts food on the table of his family. El Hadj Baba Danpullo’s philanthropy cannot be questioned. He has proven beyond all reasonable doubt that he loves everybody who comes to him for assistance. As a good man of the people, he gives with the right hand without allowing the left hand to see. He is not like other people who give and climb the podium to announce what they have given. His enemies have tried to link him to the former minister of Territorial Administration by giving the impression that he is against President Paul Biya. How can one who is against President Biya the way people want us to see, offer 100 million for President Biya’s campaign in the North West region of Cameroon?

Prof Edward Tafah Edokat: Bringing Honour To His Kinsmen

A prophet it has been stated, is never recognized at home. This assertion held true in Jesus’ time and still holds true today. Until his dead, Jesus was never hailed or recognized in his native Nazareth. With all the miracles he performed and with all the good work and preaching he did, nobody in Jerusalem hailed or honoured him. It is common knowledge that his kinsmen doubted everything he said or did. Each time he was in the limelight, natives in Jerusalem were heard questioning: “Is this not the son of Joseph”? To them, a son of Joseph could not do anything good. All what Jesus did meant nothing to all those who knew his background and his humble beginnings. That is why Jesus himself decided to go to other lands and perform his miracles of healing the sick and bringing the dead to life. In performing his earthly assignment, Jesus decided to go to other towns and cities distant from Jerusalem.

Prof Edward Tafah Edokat’s trajectory may not be the same like that of Jesus Christ. Point is, immediately after he was appointed and installed as the pioneer Vice Chancellor of the University of Bamenda, he was received and honoured by the Momo Fons Union that groups together over 150 traditional rulers. They assembled at the residence of the Vice Chancellor at Mile III Nkwen and crowned him with traditional honours. This singular recognition makes him stand out as a distinguished son of ngemba land. These traditional blessings bestowed on Prof Edward Tafah Edokat opened the door for other honours. The Fons of Momo saw in their son an eye opener and decided to be the first to recognize him.

Prof Edward Tafah Edokat was recognized with a red feather which is one of the highest traditional honours in our grassfield culture. This was in recognition of the development efforts he has been making in Momo division and more importantly, because of the great strides he has been making in moulding the youth, leaders of tomorrow. Prof Edward has for over the years been involved in the shaping and reshaping of the education landscape in Cameroon. He has trained many youths at the university level. Of all forms of development, human development is the best and the most rewarding. It is the best investment as education yields the best dividends.

Prof Edokat and May 20 Medal

After discovering the great work Prof Edokat has been doing in helping Paul Biya transform greater ambitions into greater achievements, government decided last May 20, 2012 to give him a medal. This medal was one of the highest honours a son of the North West has received in recent years. He was singled out last May 20, as an honourable Cameroonian who deserves to be recognized by the nation. The medal award of last May 20, 2012 was a culmination of achievements over the years and Prof Edward Edokat deserved such a recognition.

Prof Edokat: A Silent Achiever

It was late Prof…………, founding father of eth opposition SDF party and University don who when challenged by the press as to why he was never heard in parliament, he observed that there were two categories of people – those who make all the noise, that is verbiage, and those who go straight and make the point. What he meant was that there were some people in society who spend time seeking for notice and giving the impression that they are doing all the work while there are others who just do what is needed of them and go their way. This reasoning ties with Chinue Achebe’s philosophy when he wrote that “the lunatics may be outnumbered, but they own the place”. Before his appointment as Vice Chancellor of the University of Bamenda, Prof Edward was little known by Cameroonians. This is not the same as saying he was not achieving enough for Cameroonians to know him. Proof is that during his installation, it was the Minister of Higher Education who declared that Prof Edward Tafah Edokat was ‘academically and administratively’ ripe to handle any position in the university system. Prof Edokat has achieved a lot while in Dschang and other universities. He has been a silent achiever and nobody today doubts that he is an experienced administrator who has taken all his time to acquire managerial skills. Formerly Dean of the Faculty of Economic Science/Management at the University of Dschang, Prof Edokat has been ‘maitre de conference’ with a lot of outstanding innovations both at international and national levels. The 57 years old University don who hails from Oshie village in Momo division of the North West Region was already described by Prof Fame Ndongo during his installation as academically and administratively armed. His knowledge and experience in research and administration makes him fit for the challenging job of birthing the newly created University of Bamenda.

The Future Of UBa

The decree creating the University of Bamenda states clearly that it is an anglo saxon university. After creation Jacques Fame Ndongo christened it the university of the future. As a university of the future, Prof Edward is charged with the responsibility of making it look different from others. As the university of the future UBa is supposed to lead not follow. To lead, the university has to be a solution provider, not just an institution where degree holders are churned out at the end of each year. Prof Edward Tafah Edokat is therefore the future of the university of Bamenda. What the university becomes depends on what Prof Edward makes of it. Given his ability to produce results, it is clear Prof Edward would deliver the goods. Despite distractions from people like Prof Abety Peter who thinks that Prof. Edward Edokat should take instructions from him and his Bambili elites on how the university should be run, the level-headed Prof Edward is “going placidly about his job, amidst the noise and haste, remembering what peace there is in silence”. In less than six months, the university of Bamenda has already registered five schools and faculties. This means that in the next one or two years, the vision of the university of the future would be clearer for every North Westerner to see.

The Vice Chancellor of the university of Bamenda is an honourable gentleman from very humble beginnings. He is a genuine intellectual and those who were still doubting his capacity had time to discover him during the sixth management club organized by the Higher Institute of Management in Yaounde with the Bamenda city council on focus. He presented an intellectual discuss on the roadmap of the city council and this gave him a standing ovation. Continue to make us proud, Prof Edokat.

Revealed At Last! Why PCC “Crucified” Rev Warah Solomon

A press release, signed last June 13, 2012 by Rev Che Warah Solonon, a copy of which Chronicle has ignites varied reactions. Titled: “Re-confirmation of Termination”, Rev Warah acknowledged that he abides to the PCC decision, which underpinned how, “you have terminated your services with the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon”.

Rev Warah had since plunged himself to serving those who believed in his doctrine. Yet, allegations are rife that Christopher Ndifon, Rose Simingong and even Tadzong Abel Ndeh, the ex-Bamenda Government Delegate’s wife, have been his key sponsors.

Rumours even abound that Rev Warah got his ‘spiritual (mystical) powers from India. Yet, following Chronicle’s investigations, there could have been no smile without a fire read on:

Facts About Rev Warah’s Destitution

- Violation with impunity of his ordination vows, which include; respect of the PCC constitution, her rules and regulations and the doctrines of the reformed tradition i.e by running church activities out of his assigned jurisdiction which are paralleled to and conflicting with those of the PCC. See contents of termination letter.

This aside, Rev Warah at last year’s ordination of pastor’s at PC Musang appeared without his pastoral robes and was disallowed from processing with the pastors and laying his hands on newly ordained pastors.

- Last march 2012 Rev Warah was appointed as secretary of the Mezam Presbytery meeting at PC Azire, after a futile attempt to reverse the appointment, he and his parish pastor walked off the meeting in total defiance of hierarchy to preside at a wedding at PC Ngomgham, and inaugurate Fon Angwafor’s daughter’s house located in the same vicinity.

- In the said presbytery meeting intercessors were proscribed in PCC congregations in Mezam presbytery, but contrary to all expectations. Rev Warah announced a meeting of intercession at PC Ngomgham the next Sunday. A meeting that was disbanded by the then acting presbyterial secretary and moderator’s representative the Rev. Jinu Ignatius. Rev Warah is know to have abandoned the pastor’s office at PC Ngomgham and created parallel offices for himself at Small Mankon and Ntarinkon where he directed Christians for his personal interest.

- He created bible centers where he imported and sold Christian literature and gadgets at very low costs in order to cripple Presbook.

- He imported and sold oil; oil of doubtful quality to Christians contrary to instructions that all anointing oil used in PCC congregations be obtained from sisterhood Emmanuel Bafut.

- At PC Ngomgham, Rev Warah revamped a suspended group called ‘prayer warriors’ under a new name intercessors, and used them to replace the session and the finance committee respectively. Because of the level headedness of the session, schisms and scuffles were averted, and Rev Warah and his gang looted the congregation with impunity. He organized a 40 days fasting/prayer session from 1^st June to mid Feb 2012, during which he and his gang led by a certain Rose Samingong collected offerings whose total and destination is unknown till date. On the last day more than 800.000 frs was collected, and thanks giving envelopes distributed by himself were to be personally handed over to him.  During Easter week, he organized a 7 day fast and did the same thing. Finally, he organized a 10 day fast prior to Pentecost, collected offerings which followed the same pattern.

- He is known to have converted PC Ngomgham into an advertisement ground for his shop to the extent of mounting publicity vans in front of the church house and a publicity table on the altar.

- As if out of guilt, Rev Warah organized an evaluation meeting for those who attended the 40 days fast, in which he declared that of all money collected, all had been used; used with a balance of over 600.000 frs, which the meeting should decide on what to do with it. Till date, no one knows where the money ended, because it was never reported to the session, nor handed over to finance committee.

- The pentecostalisation of PC Ngomgham by Rev Warah cannot be gainsaid. He rarely attended session meetings, and never discussed any of his projects with the session. He even presided over church rites and sacraments without his pastoral robes, and never respected the PCC liturgy.

- During Pentecost week, he was seen running a crusade with Pentecostal pastors in Yaounde in the PCC pastoral robes, pastors of which are with the PCC hierarchy. Unknown to the session and even his parish boss Rev Warah was running prayer groups in the name of the Zion family. Whatever that means at Small Mankon, Ntarinkon, Nuwatshuh Park, Ntaturu Park, Agyati Bafut, and Vicky Street. Tipper Park where he clashed with a pentecostal pastor over collections.

It was highly rumoured that Rev Warah was to launch his own church the Zion Family in 2015, reason why some members of the intercessors were secretly registering new members.

- When the bombshell of 02 June 2012 fell, members of the intercessors group were seen to be jubilating all night at his mile six residence, brandishing the termination letter and singing “Finally the lord has done it”. This was followed by nocturnal meetings at his mile six residence, involving young business men of the congregation and members of the judicial core, in which they contemplated legal action, or the establishment of their own church. Those for a church of their own carried the day, reason why all local radios stormed the air waves of Bamenda with announcements of a church service by Rev Warah at the Bamenda congress hall the very next Sunday. On realizing that the congress hall was occupied, they stationed young girls wearing Zion family T-shirts to redirect their followers to Nkah in Kwi hall Ngomgham, where they have been holding their services (public meetings without authorization).

- Rev Warah has since left for South Africa supposedly on retreat, while other terminated colleagues are pleading for clemency at the synod office.

- But who is behind the actions of Rev Warah? Mr. Ndifor Christopher the current chairman of PC Azire who doubles as Rev Warah’s God father appears to be the man. He seems to have cast a spell on the young man, reason why he forced the young to move his highly published wedding from PC Ngomgham to PC Azire and cheated Rev Warah’s parents from signing their son’s wedding and keeping them out of the reception. Mr Ndifor is known to have forced Rev Warah out of the house rented for him at Mile six without notifying the session.

- Having failed to market his idea of legal action he is known to have gone to the synod office in Buea and told the Rt Rev Moderator of the PCC that the termination has made Rev Warah more popular. He is however not alone, as an Alankie mafia now operates within the ranks of Warah’s followers. Mr. Ndifor Christopher and Mr. Nguti John both of htem Alankie boys like Rev Wara now operate prayer cells of Warah’s church in their houses. The Akohkikang neighbourhood has known no peace ever since Mr. Ndifor started the prayer group. His wife Ndifor Anne is treasurer of the church at Nkah in Kwi hall while Nguti John serves as secretary. (Affair a suivre…)

Revealed At Last! Why PCC “Crucified” Rev Warah Solomon

A press release, signed last June 13, 2012 by Rev Che Warah Solonon, a copy of which Chronicle has ignites varied reactions. Titled: “Re-confirmation of Termination”, Rev Warah acknowledged that he abides to the PCC decision, which underpinned how, “you have terminated your services with the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon”.

Rev Warah had since plunged himself to serving those who believed in his doctrine. Yet, allegations are rife that Christopher Ndifon, Rose Simingong and even Tadzong Abel Ndeh, the ex-Bamenda Government Delegate’s wife, have been his key sponsors.

Rumours even abound that Rev Warah got his ‘spiritual (mystical) powers from India. Yet, following Chronicle’s investigations, there could have been no smile without a fire read on:

Facts About Rev Warah’s Destitution

- Violation with impunity of his ordination vows, which include; respect of the PCC constitution, her rules and regulations and the doctrines of the reformed tradition i.e by running church activities out of his assigned jurisdiction which are paralleled to and conflicting with those of the PCC. See contents of termination letter.

This aside, Rev Warah at last year’s ordination of pastor’s at PC Musang appeared without his pastoral robes and was disallowed from processing with the pastors and laying his hands on newly ordained pastors.

- Last march 2012 Rev Warah was appointed as secretary of the Mezam Presbytery meeting at PC Azire, after a futile attempt to reverse the appointment, he and his parish pastor walked off the meeting in total defiance of hierarchy to preside at a wedding at PC Ngomgham, and inaugurate Fon Angwafor’s daughter’s house located in the same vicinity.

- In the said presbytery meeting intercessors were proscribed in PCC congregations in Mezam presbytery, but contrary to all expectations. Rev Warah announced a meeting of intercession at PC Ngomgham the next Sunday. A meeting that was disbanded by the then acting presbyterial secretary and moderator’s representative the Rev. Jinu Ignatius. Rev Warah is know to have abandoned the pastor’s office at PC Ngomgham and created parallel offices for himself at Small Mankon and Ntarinkon where he directed Christians for his personal interest.

- He created bible centers where he imported and sold Christian literature and gadgets at very low costs in order to cripple Presbook.

- He imported and sold oil; oil of doubtful quality to Christians contrary to instructions that all anointing oil used in PCC congregations be obtained from sisterhood Emmanuel Bafut.

- At PC Ngomgham, Rev Warah revamped a suspended group called ‘prayer warriors’ under a new name intercessors, and used them to replace the session and the finance committee respectively. Because of the level headedness of the session, schisms and scuffles were averted, and Rev Warah and his gang looted the congregation with impunity. He organized a 40 days fasting/prayer session from 1^st June to mid Feb 2012, during which he and his gang led by a certain Rose Samingong collected offerings whose total and destination is unknown till date. On the last day more than 800.000 frs was collected, and thanks giving envelopes distributed by himself were to be personally handed over to him.  During Easter week, he organized a 7 day fast and did the same thing. Finally, he organized a 10 day fast prior to Pentecost, collected offerings which followed the same pattern.

- He is known to have converted PC Ngomgham into an advertisement ground for his shop to the extent of mounting publicity vans in front of the church house and a publicity table on the altar.

- As if out of guilt, Rev Warah organized an evaluation meeting for those who attended the 40 days fast, in which he declared that of all money collected, all had been used; used with a balance of over 600.000 frs, which the meeting should decide on what to do with it. Till date, no one knows where the money ended, because it was never reported to the session, nor handed over to finance committee.

- The pentecostalisation of PC Ngomgham by Rev Warah cannot be gainsaid. He rarely attended session meetings, and never discussed any of his projects with the session. He even presided over church rites and sacraments without his pastoral robes, and never respected the PCC liturgy.

- During Pentecost week, he was seen running a crusade with Pentecostal pastors in Yaounde in the PCC pastoral robes, pastors of which are with the PCC hierarchy. Unknown to the session and even his parish boss Rev Warah was running prayer groups in the name of the Zion family. Whatever that means at Small Mankon, Ntarinkon, Nuwatshuh Park, Ntaturu Park, Agyati Bafut, and Vicky Street. Tipper Park where he clashed with a pentecostal pastor over collections.

It was highly rumoured that Rev Warah was to launch his own church the Zion Family in 2015, reason why some members of the intercessors were secretly registering new members.

- When the bombshell of 02 June 2012 fell, members of the intercessors group were seen to be jubilating all night at his mile six residence, brandishing the termination letter and singing “Finally the lord has done it”. This was followed by nocturnal meetings at his mile six residence, involving young business men of the congregation and members of the judicial core, in which they contemplated legal action, or the establishment of their own church. Those for a church of their own carried the day, reason why all local radios stormed the air waves of Bamenda with announcements of a church service by Rev Warah at the Bamenda congress hall the very next Sunday. On realizing that the congress hall was occupied, they stationed young girls wearing Zion family T-shirts to redirect their followers to Nkah in Kwi hall Ngomgham, where they have been holding their services (public meetings without authorization).

- Rev Warah has since left for South Africa supposedly on retreat, while other terminated colleagues are pleading for clemency at the synod office.

- But who is behind the actions of Rev Warah? Mr. Ndifor Christopher the current chairman of PC Azire who doubles as Rev Warah’s God father appears to be the man. He seems to have cast a spell on the young man, reason why he forced the young to move his highly published wedding from PC Ngomgham to PC Azire and cheated Rev Warah’s parents from signing their son’s wedding and keeping them out of the reception. Mr Ndifor is known to have forced Rev Warah out of the house rented for him at Mile six without notifying the session.

- Having failed to market his idea of legal action he is known to have gone to the synod office in Buea and told the Rt Rev Moderator of the PCC that the termination has made Rev Warah more popular. He is however not alone, as an Alankie mafia now operates within the ranks of Warah’s followers. Mr. Ndifor Christopher and Mr. Nguti John both of htem Alankie boys like Rev Wara now operate prayer cells of Warah’s church in their houses. The Akohkikang neighbourhood has known no peace ever since Mr. Ndifor started the prayer group. His wife Ndifor Anne is treasurer of the church at Nkah in Kwi hall while Nguti John serves as secretary. (Affair a suivre…)

Nkwain Unites CPDM & SDF At Mother’s Funeral

- Jean Nkuete & Fru Ndi Share Meal On Same Table

By Eric Motomu

Bochong Francis Nkwain, is a household name in Cameroon politics: A diplomat, former minister and presently a CPDM central committee member and Board chairman of the University of Dschang. Bochong Nkwain does not hide himself as an apostle of President Paul Biya. Yet, last Saturday July 21, 2012, his ‘Diplo-Lodge’ residence at Njinikom Boyo division, harboured leaders of varied political sheds. Jean Nkuete, the ruling CPDM Secretary General sat on same table with Ni John Fru Ndi, the SDF National Chairman. They ate together and shared pleasantries in a lighter mood, during the funeral of Bochong Nkwain’s mother.

Nini Thecla Neng Nakeh (1901 to 2012) was laid in state at the family sanctuary, besides Bochong Nkwain’s Diplo Lodge last Saturday. Her death last July 13, 2012, was christened “Celebrating Transition”.

At 111 years, Bochong’s mother could be considered as one of the oldest persons that lived. Yet, what made her funeral very explosive remains the pedigree of her son, Bochong Nkwain. Being a man of fame and onion, Nkwain pulled the big, the strong and the famous to Njinikom.

Groundbreaking Attendance

At least 5000 mourners stormed the St Anthony parish at Njinikom and Bochong’s Diplo-Lodge to share in his agony. The list was unending: Jean Nkuete (CPDM central committee secretary general), Ni John Fru Ndi (SDF National Chairman), El Hadj Lawan Bako (UDP National Chairman).

Also, ELECAM Board Chairman, Dr. Samuel Fonkam Azu’u was at Njinikom, just as ex-Governors Fai Yengo Francis and Eno Abrams Egbe. The Prime Minister’s wife, Dr. Linda was operating in the background.

El Hadj Baba Ahmadou Danpullo, the greatest industrialist Cameroon can be proud of, took time off to condole with Bochong. Despite witnessing the commencement of Ramadan with its difficulties, El Hadj Danpullo was at the St Anthony Parish, then at Diplo Lodge to condole with Bochong and witness the burial of his mum.

Being a CPDM central committee bigwig, Nkwain was not left alone by his folk from North West, to mourn his mum. The soft spoken and accommodating Pa Nchou Joseph Adu, a central committee member and Mme Regina Mundi, the lone female politbureau member from North West, were at Njinikom too.

Other faces who caught Chronicle’s attention, included a crack team from the University of Dschang, led by the Rector, Prof Anaclec Fomedet. The Boyo administration with the SDO, David Embe and Njinikom DO were conspicuously present. Dr. Nwana Sama Bernard, Secretary General of the Chamber of Agriculture just as Prof Uphie Chinje Melo, Director of the local material production centre MIPROMALO, were also at Njinikom. Even the SDF mayor Ngong Chiatoh David and MPs, Njong Evaristus and Ntam James were there. Also Vincent Nji Ndumu, the dynamic mayor of Bamenda city and pretty wife, were conspicuously present.

Euphoria: From Church To Graveside

Some observers, confided in Chronicle that but not of the trappings of Bochong Nkwain, Nini Thecla Neng Nakeh would have died unnoticed. Her funeral mass was rich in attendance, personalities and the message.

Nini Thecla’s journey to the world beyond, kick started at 8.30a.m at the St Martin De Porres Catholic General Hospital mortuary, Njinikom. Then, she was led into the St Anthony Catholic Church Njinikom, a few metres away, in a procession.

The requiem mass, which took some 3 hours, was co-celebrated by Archbishop Cornelius Fontem Esua, Bishop of the Bamenda Archdiocese alongside Bishop Joseph Nkwo of the Kumbo diocese, and a native of Kom. Yet, it was Rev Father Ignatius Waindum, Rector of the major seminary in Bambui, who presented the sermon of the day. It was joltive and palpitating, reflective of the exemplary life which Nini Thecla lived for 111 years.

The funeral mass was spiced by varied choral groups singing and a special offering presented in church, on behalf of the Nkwains. This was the scene that created excitement. Anne Nsang and her kid sister Bernis Mengot danced exceedingly to the pulpit before presenting offertory.

Whether at the St Anthony parish or at the Diplo Lodge, the scenario was electric. Chronicle was merely told by a family member that, it was a celebration, not just a cry-die.

Nini Thecla Neng Nakeh was married to Martin Nainchom in 1927. They had seven (7) children. But upon her death, three (3) were still alive. She died leaving behind 21 grand children and 35 great-grand children.

Buried last Saturday July 21, 2012, Mama Thecla’s cry-die and traditional celebrations holds Monday July 23, 2012. Apart from Bochong Nkwain as chief host, cry-die packages are expected to be destined to Minister Mengot Arrey Nkongho, Minister of Special Duties at the Presidency. He is married to one of Bochong’s daughters, Bernis and Mr. Nsang, married to the very dynamic journalist and UN communication cadre, Anne Nsang Nkwain.

Amongst the numerous mourners, included pressmen, Choves Loh, North West Regional Chief of SOPECAM (Cameroon Tribune), just as journalist Delphine Fein of CRTV Bamenda and Genevieve Njoya. Also, Tim Finnian of Life Time, Chrysantus Chong of The Horizon, Charlie Ebua of Arian.

Nkwain Unites CPDM & SDF At Mother’s Funeral

- Jean Nkuete & Fru Ndi Share Meal On Same Table

By Eric Motomu

Bochong Francis Nkwain, is a household name in Cameroon politics: A diplomat, former minister and presently a CPDM central committee member and Board chairman of the University of Dschang. Bochong Nkwain does not hide himself as an apostle of President Paul Biya. Yet, last Saturday July 21, 2012, his ‘Diplo-Lodge’ residence at Njinikom Boyo division, harboured leaders of varied political sheds. Jean Nkuete, the ruling CPDM Secretary General sat on same table with Ni John Fru Ndi, the SDF National Chairman. They ate together and shared pleasantries in a lighter mood, during the funeral of Bochong Nkwain’s mother.

Nini Thecla Neng Nakeh (1901 to 2012) was laid in state at the family sanctuary, besides Bochong Nkwain’s Diplo Lodge last Saturday. Her death last July 13, 2012, was christened “Celebrating Transition”.

At 111 years, Bochong’s mother could be considered as one of the oldest persons that lived. Yet, what made her funeral very explosive remains the pedigree of her son, Bochong Nkwain. Being a man of fame and onion, Nkwain pulled the big, the strong and the famous to Njinikom.

Groundbreaking Attendance

At least 5000 mourners stormed the St Anthony parish at Njinikom and Bochong’s Diplo-Lodge to share in his agony. The list was unending: Jean Nkuete (CPDM central committee secretary general), Ni John Fru Ndi (SDF National Chairman), El Hadj Lawan Bako (UDP National Chairman).

Also, ELECAM Board Chairman, Dr. Samuel Fonkam Azu’u was at Njinikom, just as ex-Governors Fai Yengo Francis and Eno Abrams Egbe. The Prime Minister’s wife, Dr. Linda was operating in the background.

El Hadj Baba Ahmadou Danpullo, the greatest industrialist Cameroon can be proud of, took time off to condole with Bochong. Despite witnessing the commencement of Ramadan with its difficulties, El Hadj Danpullo was at the St Anthony Parish, then at Diplo Lodge to condole with Bochong and witness the burial of his mum.

Being a CPDM central committee bigwig, Nkwain was not left alone by his folk from North West, to mourn his mum. The soft spoken and accommodating Pa Nchou Joseph Adu, a central committee member and Mme Regina Mundi, the lone female politbureau member from North West, were at Njinikom too.

Other faces who caught Chronicle’s attention, included a crack team from the University of Dschang, led by the Rector, Prof Anaclec Fomedet. The Boyo administration with the SDO, David Embe and Njinikom DO were conspicuously present. Dr. Nwana Sama Bernard, Secretary General of the Chamber of Agriculture just as Prof Uphie Chinje Melo, Director of the local material production centre MIPROMALO, were also at Njinikom. Even the SDF mayor Ngong Chiatoh David and MPs, Njong Evaristus and Ntam James were there. Also Vincent Nji Ndumu, the dynamic mayor of Bamenda city and pretty wife, were conspicuously present.

Euphoria: From Church To Graveside

Some observers, confided in Chronicle that but not of the trappings of Bochong Nkwain, Nini Thecla Neng Nakeh would have died unnoticed. Her funeral mass was rich in attendance, personalities and the message.

Nini Thecla’s journey to the world beyond, kick started at 8.30a.m at the St Martin De Porres Catholic General Hospital mortuary, Njinikom. Then, she was led into the St Anthony Catholic Church Njinikom, a few metres away, in a procession.

The requiem mass, which took some 3 hours, was co-celebrated by Archbishop Cornelius Fontem Esua, Bishop of the Bamenda Archdiocese alongside Bishop Joseph Nkwo of the Kumbo diocese, and a native of Kom. Yet, it was Rev Father Ignatius Waindum, Rector of the major seminary in Bambui, who presented the sermon of the day. It was joltive and palpitating, reflective of the exemplary life which Nini Thecla lived for 111 years.

The funeral mass was spiced by varied choral groups singing and a special offering presented in church, on behalf of the Nkwains. This was the scene that created excitement. Anne Nsang and her kid sister Bernis Mengot danced exceedingly to the pulpit before presenting offertory.

Whether at the St Anthony parish or at the Diplo Lodge, the scenario was electric. Chronicle was merely told by a family member that, it was a celebration, not just a cry-die.

Nini Thecla Neng Nakeh was married to Martin Nainchom in 1927. They had seven (7) children. But upon her death, three (3) were still alive. She died leaving behind 21 grand children and 35 great-grand children.

Buried last Saturday July 21, 2012, Mama Thecla’s cry-die and traditional celebrations holds Monday July 23, 2012. Apart from Bochong Nkwain as chief host, cry-die packages are expected to be destined to Minister Mengot Arrey Nkongho, Minister of Special Duties at the Presidency. He is married to one of Bochong’s daughters, Bernis and Mr. Nsang, married to the very dynamic journalist and UN communication cadre, Anne Nsang Nkwain.

Amongst the numerous mourners, included pressmen, Choves Loh, North West Regional Chief of SOPECAM (Cameroon Tribune), just as journalist Delphine Fein of CRTV Bamenda and Genevieve Njoya. Also, Tim Finnian of Life Time, Chrysantus Chong of The Horizon, Charlie Ebua of Arian.

SCNC SG’s ‘State Burial’ Marred By Controversy At Graveside

- CMA Members Boycott Burial Over Traditional Rite Performed On Corpse

The fallen Southern Cameroons National Council, SCNC Secretary General, Fidelis Chwenko was on Saturday July 21, 2012, given a state burial at his Ntaseng quarters in Nkwen Bamenda.

Officiating over the state burial, the SCNC acting chairman, Nfor Ngala Nfor, regretted that it pains the SCNC activists to bid farewell to somebody like Fidelis Chwenko who was very dedicated to the SCNC struggle.

Referring the mourners to Proverbs 23:10 and Esther 4, the SCNC chieftain wondered why some people claim they are Christians, yet they do not fight for the truth and justice like Fidelis Chwenko did in his hey days. Hear him: “Fidelis died for the truth, love and justice and defended and fought for what he believed in”.

On behalf of SCNC and in line with late Fidelis Chwenko’s will, Nfor Nfor handed a symbolic SCNC flag to the deceased’s eldest son, Kenneth Chwenko, a cardiologist working in Australia, to finish the fight his father left half done. The SCNC national anthem, “Freedom Land…” was sung as the casket was lowered in the grave amidst an outburst of wailing from the deceased relations.

Ructions broke out when the late Fidelis’ family head and a delegation from the Mankon Fon’s palace nosed in to put a traditional camwood on late Fidelis’ forehead. This provoked the Catholic Men Association (CMA) members of St. Joseph Catholic church, Nkwen where Fidelis was a member, to check out of the scene without witnessing the burial proper.

According to the CMA members, no traditional rite is supposed to be performed on a corpse after the church service. But the family head and the delegation from the Mankon fon’s palace, argued that it was a normal traditional rite performed with camwood extracted from a tree that was created by God himself and so nothing was satanic or devilish about it.

The Mankon fon’s delegation succeeded to perform the traditional rite by robbing camwood on late Fidelis’ forehead arguing that it’s simply a sign of bidding farewell to the decease in the Mankon land.

In an exclusive interview with Nfor Ngala Nfor, he said Fidelis Chwenko was a comrade and barefoot soldier in the SCNC. “In fact, I have lost part of me. He was so close to me that his death is like I have been stripped naked”. He opined that it was just proper for SCNC to accord late Fidelis a state burial, reason why the symbols of the SCNC state like the flag and anthem, wee present at the burial.

On who will succeed Fidelis Chwenko, Nfor Nfor said the executive of the SCNC will sit and designate someone to act in the interim before the election is conducted. However, he said for the main time, the Assistant Secretary General, Mesodi Zacheri, who came in from Meme, South West Region will go on with the job.

The SCNC activists who wore mufflers, caps and T-shirts with the inscription: “Federal Republic of Southern Cameroons- FRSC” placed the biggest wreath on Fidelis’ grave reading: “SCNC bids farewell to Fidelis Chwenko”.

Fidelis Chwenko served as the assistant organizing secretary of the SCNC until he rose to the portfolio of secretary general when Vincent Feko allegedly became wayward.

Fidelis was allegedly dead of diabetes on July 7, 2012 at the age of 64.

Unlike late Hitler Mbinglo’s burial in Bamenda which policemen disrupted the occasion and arrested some activists for wearing SCNC T-shirts, Fidelis Chwenko’s burial went on hitch-free with no police in sight.