Traditional Title or Political Move? Eto’o’s Ntumfoyn Recognition Criticized

BAMENDA, Cameroon, Jan. 21, 2025 — The conferring of the prestigious Ntumfoyn title to Samuel Eto’o, president of the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT), by Fon Ju Wilson of Koshin Village in Menchum Division has sparked widespread debate.

Social media users and traditional leaders in Cameroon’s North West Region are divided over the football icon’s recognition, questioning its legitimacy and the motives behind it.

Who is Fon Ju Wilson?

Fon Ju Wilson, the traditional ruler of Koshin Village, is a multifaceted figure with influence that extends beyond traditional leadership. He is:

• The Head of the Department of Land and Surveys in Bonaberi Douala, Cameroon’s economic capital.
• A Member of the BIR Battalion, an elite unit of the Cameroonian military.
• A Businessman, owning and operating a popular nightclub in the Bonaberi quarters of Douala.
• Politically connected, with Baba Ahmadou Danpullo, owner of the Ndawara Tea Estate in Ndop, as his godfather in the Cameroonian political scene.

Fon Ju Wilson is no stranger to granting the Ntumfoyn title. Previous recipients include Cameroon’s Minister of Land and Survey and a British Embassy official, leading some to speculate that he may be using the title to lobby for political positions, fame, and power within the Biya regime.

The Controversial Title and Mission

On January 17, 2025, Fon Ju Wilson conferred the Ntumfoyn title on Eto’o during a ceremony in Douala. The title, according to Fon Ju, designates Eto’o as a "messenger and mediator" for the Koshin Palace. However, the event has ignited controversy due to widespread misinterpretation of the title as "Fon of Fons," a prestigious designation typically reserved for exceptional leaders.

In defending his decision, Fon Ju Wilson stated:

“I uplifted Samuel Eto’o to the prestigious post of Ntumfoyn of Koshin Fondom with the powers conferred onto me by my people. It is independent of other fondoms, and I do not have the power to name a Fon of Fons. There is only one Fon of Fons in Cameroon, and that is President Paul Biya.”

Divided Opinions and Allegations of Misuse

Critics argue that Fon Ju Wilson’s repeated bestowal of the Ntumfoyn title to high-profile figures dilutes its significance and is a ploy to elevate his own status within Cameroon’s political hierarchy. Speculation has also arisen that Fon Ju’s connections with the Biya regime are being leveraged for personal ambition, with some accusing him of exploiting his traditional authority for political and social gain.

Others, however, see the move as part of Fon Ju’s broader mission to bring visibility and prestige to Koshin Village through strategic alliances with influential figures.

Public Discontent and Misunderstanding

Samuel Eto’o’s recognition has drawn mixed reactions, particularly on social media. Many residents of the North West Region argue that Eto’o has shown little interest in the region’s struggles, including the Anglophone crisis and the plight of displaced persons.

On the other hand, supporters defend Eto’o’s Ntumfoyn title as symbolic, emphasizing his role as a unifier and a national figure of pride.

The controversy was further fueled by the traditional attire Eto’o wore during the ceremony, including a cap adorned with porcupine quills and cowries—symbols of authority typically reserved for high-ranking traditional rulers. Critics argue that this act blurred the lines between Ntumfoyn and higher traditional designations.

North West Chiefs' Official Response

The Chamber of Chiefs in the North West Region, led by Fon Yakum Kevin Teveuh, issued a statement distancing themselves from the coronation.

“The unauthorized coronation of Samuel Eto’o violates the laws governing chieftaincy in Cameroon. The North West Fons recognize only one Fon of Fons—President Paul Biya,” Fon Yakum stated.

However, Henry Kejang, a North West prince and political spokesperson, clarified that Eto’o’s Ntumfoyn title is specific to Koshin Palace and does not extend to the region at large. He noted, “The title requires Eto’o to serve as a messenger and mediator for the palace, promoting peace and unity.”

A Broader Implication

The controversy highlights growing tensions between traditional authority and modern political aspirations in Cameroon. It also underscores the challenges of preserving cultural practices in an era where they can be easily misunderstood or manipulated.

As Samuel Eto’o steps into his new role as Ntumfoyn of Koshin Palace, the debate over its meaning and implications continues, raising questions about the intersection of tradition, politics, and personal ambition in Cameroon.