Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mimi Mefo Info (Editor)
Published on 2024-03-30 08:07:40
Folklore music star Shey Lontum Yov has issued an apology to Ngwerong, the traditional regulatory authority of the Nso people in the North West Region, for disrespecting the tribe’s royal attire in his musical art. The singer, who was bestowed with the traditional title “Shey” by the Nso Fon years ago, expressed that his intention was never to undermine traditional authority when he appeared in apparel reserved for royalty.
On March 22, Lontum received a message from the Ngwerong warning him to refrain from wearing clothing designated for royalty and special Nso individuals. While the message did not specifically point out the aspect of his attire that offended tribal customs, Lontum acknowledged the underlying message.
In response, Lontum humbly accepted the warning from Ngwerong and acknowledged their role in upholding cultural heritage and protocol regarding the use of royal insignia. In his statement, he expressed his understanding and respect for the authority of Ngwerong in enforcing cultural traditions.
Throughout his music videos and photos shared online, Lontum can be seen wearing traditional attire adorned with the Toghu fabric, often accompanied by a traditional cap, bangles, and a necklace. Although Toghu fabric was traditionally reserved for royalty, its usage has evolved in modern Cameroon, where people from all backgrounds utilize the material to create fashionable attire.
While many traditional institutions tolerate the use of Toghu fabric in dressing, the Nso traditional authority holds stricter guidelines. Lontum, known for promoting Nso culture through his music, clarified that his use of attire resembling that of the Fon was not meant to challenge traditional authority but rather to celebrate and showcase Nso culture.
Shey Lontum Yov has captured the admiration of Cameroonian culture enthusiasts with his hit songs like “Last Hour,” “Ngeh (Nkeleng Nkeleng),” and “Ten Ten.” Through his music, he fuses the Nso language with pidgin English to create pieces that celebrate and preserve the Nso culture.
Read the original article(French) on Mimi Mefo Info
