The separatist conflict in Cameroon's Anglophone regions has claimed the lives of over 6,000 people, including several traditional leaders. On September 10, 2024, Chief Obon Ekpoh Philip Nkwoi of Erat village and his wife were tragically killed in Mundemba, South West region, prompting widespread fear and causing many villagers to flee.
Traditional rulers have become key targets in the conflict, often accused of aligning with either the separatists or the government. Since 2016, almost a dozen chiefs have been killed, with most of these attacks occurring in the South West region, particularly in areas like Ndian and Fako. These killings have been carried out by separatists, government forces, and armed groups.
Some leaders, like Fon Yakum Kelvin Shomintang, have survived captivity, but many others have not been so lucky. The government's silence on these attacks has only increased the vulnerability of traditional rulers, leaving them without protection as violence continues to escalate.
What can be done to protect traditional rulers in these regions?
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