The Senior Divisional Officer (SDO) for Mezam, Simon Emile Mooh, on Friday officially installed His Royal Majesty Fon Chinelum Eugene Ngwashi I as the new Paramount Fon of Akum. This administrative coronation brings to a close a historic transition marked by solemn remembrance, strong state authority and renewed hope for peace and development in the Fondom.
Presiding over the ceremony on behalf of the Government of Cameroon, the Mezam SDO opened proceedings by expressing gratitude to the Akum Welfare Development Association and the Organizing Committee for the warm reception accorded to him and his entourage. He equally thanked the population, elites and members of the Akum diaspora for their massive turnout, describing their presence as a clear demonstration of loyalty to state institutions and republican values.
Tribute to a Long and Distinguished Reign
At the heart of his address, Simon Emile Mooh paid glowing tribute to the late Fon Ndikum George Ngwashi, who “disappeared” on May 27, 2024, after nearly 66 years on the throne. The SDO recalled that the late ruler, who became Fon in 1958, was the oldest and dean of second-class chiefs in the Mezam Division and the North-West Region.
According to the SDO, Fon Ndikum George Ngwashi distinguished himself through unwavering loyalty to public institutions, vigilance, and dedication to peace, security and development. He praised the late monarch’s efforts to preserve unity and shield the Fondom from the effects of terrorism, stressing that his upright leadership would remain a lasting legacy for Akum.
Due Process and Profile of the New Fon
The Mezam SDO explained that following consultations held on November 9, 2024, Chi Ngwashi John, now Fon Chinelum Eugene Ngwashi I, was designated as the new Paramount Fon of Akum. He presented the new ruler as a seasoned Senior Superintendent of Police, with over two decades of experience in territorial surveillance and internal security.
Born in Akum on April 16, 1975, the new Fon received his early education in Akum before joining the Cameroon National Police in 2000. His career took him through sensitive postings in the Far North, the Bakassi Peninsula and the South-West Region, where he served in intelligence and operational coordination roles. From 2014 to 2021, he worked in Ekondo-Titi, contributing to intelligence-led security operations, and currently serves as Regional Chief of the Sector of Territorial Surveillance in the North-West Region. He is a holder of a Master’s Degree in Leadership from the University of Buea.
Simon Emile Mooh described Fon Chinelum Eugene Ngwashi I as intellectually and professionally equipped to lead a strategic and sensitive First-Class Fondom like Akum.
Firm Instructions on Law, Order and Cohesion
Addressing the new Fon directly, the SDO underscored the responsibilities attached to traditional authority under the 1977 decree on the organization of chiefdoms. He reminded the new ruler that chiefs are auxiliaries of the administration, charged with transmitting government directives, assisting in the maintenance of law and order, promoting economic, social and cultural development, and settling disputes in line with custom and the law.
He urged the Fon to remain vigilant against terrorism, hate speech and xenophobia, and to revive local vigilante peace groups. The SDO also called on the new ruler to encourage armed youths still hiding in the bushes to take advantage of the Head of State’s offer of forgiveness and integrate into the DDR programme. Assuring him of state protection, Simon Emile Mooh reaffirmed the administration’s readiness to support the Fon in the discharge of his duties.
Turning to the population, the SDO stressed that the success of the new reign would depend on collective support. He called on elites, political and religious leaders, economic operators and the diaspora to give unconditional backing to the new Paramount Fon.
Fon Chinelum Eugene Ngwashi I Sets Vision
In his maiden address, Fon Chinelum Eugene Ngwashi I described the day as both solemn and joyful, marking his official installation and the celebration of Mbiafor, held in honour of his late father. He thanked the Mezam SDO for his guidance and patience throughout the transition period, acknowledging the challenges faced since the passing of the former Fon.
The new ruler pledged to govern with humility, inclusiveness and transparency, while remaining faithful to Akum customs and the laws of the Republic. He outlined a development agenda focused on education, infrastructure, diaspora engagement, social cohesion, youth empowerment and cultural preservation, stressing that peace and unity would remain the pillars of his reign.
Community Voices and Collective Commitment
Other speakers echoed messages of unity and continuity. The President General of the Akum Welfare Association, Tanyi Charles Mambo, traced the association’s long-standing role in education, health, water, electricity, road construction and peace-building, describing the installation as a rare and historic moment for the community.
Speaking on behalf of the Akum elite, Dr. Chi Asafor Cornelius highlighted the importance of administrative validation in traditional leadership and thanked state authorities for honouring Akum with their presence. He described Akum as a peaceful and hospitable community and welcomed guests to witness its rich culture.
The President of the Organizing Committee, Pius Nji Tumansang, struck a balance between mourning and hope, paying tribute to the departed Fon while calling for loyalty and support for the new ruler to ensure peace, prosperity and continuity.
A New Chapter for Akum
By officially declaring Fon Chinelum Eugene Ngwashi I installed, Simon Emile Mooh brought the ceremony to its climax, sealing a transition that blends tradition with state authority. The event, attended by government officials, traditional rulers, elites, sponsors and a large population, marked the opening of a new chapter for Akum, one anchored on unity, respect for institutions, and a shared commitment to peace and development under the guidance of the new Paramount Fon.
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