Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kate Bih
Published on 2024-02-20 21:00:27
The Guzang Market Square in the Batibo Sub Division, Momo Division of the North West Region has become a cause for concern due to the unattended corpse of Efang Emmanuel, a self-proclaimed General of the Ambazonian Defence Forces (ADF), which has caused distress among locals. The lifeless body of Efang, also known as Big Number, has been left untouched at Guzang Market Square for five days, emitting noxious odors as it decomposes. The scene is grim, with the neglected corpse lying in a deteriorating state.
The circumstances surrounding Efang’s presence at the market square are linked to a retaliatory act by the military in response to his alleged killing of two civilians in the same location. However, the consequences of leaving his corpse unattended go beyond this.
The abandonment of the corpse has resulted in the closure of one of the region’s largest markets, exacerbating the already dire economic situation. Mamoun, a trader in second-hand clothing known as Okrika, expressed her reluctance to go to the market unless it is disinfected, fearing that she might return with an illness. Additionally, there are concerns that the government’s actions may escalate tensions and incite further unrest among the populace.
Efang rose to prominence after the demise of the self-proclaimed General Ivo during the Anglophone Crisis. Despite his allegiance to Ayaba Cho’s ADF, his reign was marked by terror and violence against the population of Bali and parts of Momo Division.
Efforts to locate Efang’s family have been unsuccessful, with no one coming forward to claim the body despite announcements made by hospital authorities. The military’s decision to transfer the corpse from the Bamenda Hospital Mortuary to Guzang Market Square has prompted questions about its intended message and the potential repercussions of its actions. Separatist leader Capo Daniel, based in the UK, has appealed through a video, urging the Red Cross and the Presbyterian Church to help clear the area. However, his plea received unfruitful responses, as those he contacted indicated that only the state can authorize them to bury Efang Emmanuel.
As the situation continues to unfold, urgent intervention from local authorities is imperative to address the health risks posed by the decomposing corpse and restore normalcy to the area. Failure to act promptly not only jeopardizes public health but also risks exacerbating the already fragile socio-political situation in the region.
Read the original article(French) on Mimi Mefo Info
