Fon Meh Buh II Installed as New Traditional Ruler of Esu After Four-Year Vacancy

Fon Meh Buh II, New Fon of Esu

After nearly four years without a traditional ruler, the Esu Fondom has a new Fon. Fon Meh Buh II, born Fidelis Nfuia, was officially installed on Monday following the completion of traditional rites and formal recognition by administrative authorities.

The installation ceremony took place in Esu in the presence of senior state officials, including the Senior Divisional Officer for Menchum Division, Abdoulahi, and the Divisional Officer for Fungom Subdivision, Garba Oumaru, whose attendance signified the government’s endorsement of the new traditional authority.

Fon Meh Buh II comes from a historic royal lineage, becoming the latest in a succession that spans three generations of Fons—his great-grandfather, grandfather, and father all previously ruled Esu. His ascension followed established customary procedures, with kingmakers observing rotational succession and carrying out consultations in line with Esu tradition.

Menchum SDO present at the public presentation of Fon Buh

Educated at GS Esu, GHS Wum, GBHS Deido, and the University of Yaoundé II, Soa, where he earned degrees in Law and Political Science, the new Fon is widely regarded as calm, disciplined, and accessible. Many within the Esu community believe these qualities will help guide the Fondom during a period that calls for unity and stability.

In his first public remarks, Fon Meh Buh II paid tribute to his immediate predecessor by observing a minute of silence. He then appealed to the population to embrace peace, unity, and mutual understanding, urging Esu sons and daughters—both at home and abroad—to work together for the collective good of the Fondom.

He also pledged loyalty to the administrative authorities and expressed his willingness to work closely with the government in promoting peace and development. Emphasizing the sacred nature of Esu land, the Fon assured the population of his determination to protect the Fondom’s territorial integrity.

The ceremony drew a large and diverse audience, including the Fon of Maga from Nigeria, alongside traditional rulers and notable personalities from across Menchum Division, highlighting the importance of the event beyond Esu.

The installation of Fon Meh Buh II brings an end to a prolonged vacancy on the throne following the assassination of Fon Kum Achuo Kaw Zih Albert II and his wife, Queen Bibiana Bong, who were killed on March 9, 2022, while returning from Weh after attending the enthronement of the Fon of Weh.

With the throne now occupied once again, many residents are hopeful that the new reign will usher in a period of reconciliation, respect for tradition, and renewed commitment to peace and development within the Esu Fondom