Rédaction Africa Links 24 with David Atangana
Published on 2024-04-17 17:04:23
Nanje Leonard Nakeri Nambere, a controversial figure who has previously led a separatist militia in Cameroon, has been sighted in the United Kingdom, with speculations that his trip was facilitated by a separatist group from Ambazonia.
Investigations by MMI have confirmed that Nambere, known as “General Nambere” during his time with the Ambazonia separatists, was seen in Croydon, London. His presence in the UK has raised questions due to his history of changing allegiances. The Republic of Ambazonia (RoA), a Cameroonian diaspora separatist group, is said to have played a role in facilitating his relocation.
Florentine Fonche, representing the Republic of Ambazonia group, reassured the public of Nambere’s safety and security in a Facebook post. She stated, “I am pleased to officially confirm that General Nambere, my comrade brother and son, is presently situated in the United Kingdom, where he remains safe and secure. Demonstrating a steadfast commitment to peace, General Nambere has been in residence for over a week.”
The RoA has also disclosed that they are assisting in relocating former separatist fighters to Europe and the US. Fonche mentioned, “Over 14 Ambazonians have relocated to Europe with my support. A group also traveled to the United States, but unfortunately faced losses along the way.”
Nambere played a significant role in the early stages of the Anglophone Crisis, leading the Ambazonia Restoration Force (ARF), a militia loyal to the Interim Government of Ambazonia. He was involved in various regions and faced allegations of human rights abuses, such as extortion, torture, and civilian killings. Despite these accusations, Nambere has denied targeting civilians in past video statements.
In 2019, Nambere crossed into Nigeria to meet sponsors for weapons procurement, which did not materialize, leaving him stranded and disenchanted. Later that year, he and another self-proclaimed leader, Success Nkongho, surrendered to the Cameroonian government, renouncing the separatist movement. They were subsequently transported to Yaounde along with 87 other refugees, where they were received by government officials.
After surrendering, Nambere became an ally of the government, assisting security forces in targeting remaining separatist fighters and appearing in propaganda videos urging fighters to lay down their arms.
However, Nambere reportedly became dissatisfied with his treatment by the government and expressed regret for surrendering in February 2021 on a My Media Prime Television programme. He then fled to Nigeria again, demanding resettlement in the UK or US, a passport, and financial assistance from the Cameroonian authorities.
Nambere’s recent appearance in the UK has cast doubts on his relationship with the Cameroonian government and the role of the RoA in his relocation.
Overall, Nambere’s history of shifting allegiances and his current situation in the UK raise concerns about the ongoing Anglophone Crisis and the involvement of separatist groups in the conflict.
Read the original article(French) on Mimi Mefo Info
