Fon Eugene Ngwashi I officially recognized by the state
The Akum Welfare Association (AWA) has reaffirmed its loyalty and commitment to the traditional institution of Akum following the formal administrative recognition of Fon Eugene Ngwashi I by the State, pledging its unwavering support, prayers, and collaboration for a peaceful and prosperous reign.
Mezam SDO, Simon Emile Mooh official recognizes Fon Ngwashi I on behalf of the state
The ceremony, organized specifically to allow the State formally recognise the new Fon, was presided over by the Senior Divisional Officer (SDO) for Mezam, Simon Emile Mooh. The event marked the official endorsement of Fon Eugene Ngwashi I as Paramount Ruler of Akum, enabling him to fully exercise his traditional and administrative responsibilities.
Speaking during activities organised in honour of the new Fon, the President of the Organising Committee, Pius Tumasang, said the occasion was one to celebrate continuity, tradition, and cultural identity. He noted that under successive reigns, Akum has remained rooted in its customs while embracing development.
According to him, the opening of roads and construction of bridges in and around Akum have significantly improved accessibility, making the village more attractive and economically viable. He described these achievements as part of a legacy that must be preserved and strengthened.
Tribute to the Missing Fon Ndikum II
Tributes were paid to the disappeared Fon Ndikum George Ngwashi II, who disappeared on May 22, 2024, after serving Akum for an exceptional 66 years, having ascended the throne in 1958. He was described by the SDO as the Dean of Second-Class Fons in Mezam Division and the North West Region.
The SDO recalled his unwavering loyalty to state institutions, his devotion to duty, and his constant vigilance in matters of security and development. Under his reign, Akum enjoyed stability, dignity, and cultural preservation, leaving behind a legacy that continues to guide the Fondom.
Profile of the New Fon
Born on April 6, 1975, in Akum, Fon Eugene Ngwashi I attended CS Akum, St. Bede’s College Ashing-Kom, and later joined the police force in 2000. He rose through the ranks and is today a Senior Superintendent of Police, serving for more than two decades in territorial surveillance, including as Regional Chief of Sector for Territorial Surveillance in the North West Region.
He also holds a Master’s Degree in Leadership from the University of Buea, qualifications which speakers said provide him with the academic, professional, and leadership foundation required to govern the Fondom.
Calls for Unity and Security
Dr Cornelius Chi Asafor
On behalf of the Elite of the Fondom, Dr Tantoh Cornelius Chi Asafor, called on the population to lend unconditional support to the new Fon, stressing that the success of the traditional institution depends largely on the cooperation of the people.
He joined his voice to that of the SDO to urge residents to combat hate speech and xenophobia. The SDO stresses on the creation of vigilante groups to fight against terrorism and strengthen security in the Fondom.
Fon Eugene Ngwashi I’s Vision
In his address, Fon Eugene Ngwashi I emphasized unity, peace, and collective responsibility, describing Akum as one and indivisible. He called on the population to resolve differences with honour and dignity and paid tribute to the elite of Akum for their commitment to development.
The Fon outlined his vision focused on peace, social cohesion, and cultural preservation, with education identified as the cornerstone of development. He pledged support for scholarships, economic excellence, youth mentorship—particularly from Akum sons and daughters in the diaspora—and a reduction in alcohol abuse among the youth.
Sons and daughters of Akum, Guests answered present
He also identified infrastructural development, including roads, electricity, and access to basic social services, as priority areas requiring collective attention.
Looking Ahead
North West and West Governors to the left
Cross section of Fons in the North West Region
As celebrations continued, members of the Akum Welfare Association renewed their pledge of loyalty and prayers, expressing hope that the reign of His Royal Majesty Fon Eugene Ngwashi I would be long, peaceful, truthful, and prosperous, and that Akum would continue to thrive under his leadership.
The official recognition of HRM Fon Ngwashi was attended by the Governors of the North West and West Regions, the First class Fon of Mankon, the Fons of Bamendakwe, Bambili, Chomba and a host of other Fons from Santa subdivision and the North West Region as a whole.
By
Ndi Tsembom Elvis
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