Female Mayors of the North West led by Annatou Abrams have presented their plights and those of women to the Governor of the North West Region.
Speaking to Governor Adolphe Lele Lafrique on Thursday 21st November 2024, the female Mayors decried the killing of two of their members; the Deputy Mayor of Elak Oku and the Second Deputy Mayor of Bamenda II, Joko Frida.
While lamenting that women are at the centre of the family and killing them is destabilizing the basic unit of society, the Mayors called on the Governor to do all to ensure the safety and protection of women in the crisis-hit North West Region. Citing rule 134 of the International Humanitarian Law that specifically protects women and children, the Mayors called on those who had taken arms against the state to respect the rule of engagement by respecting the fundamental rights of women and girls.
"When you look at how our colleagues were brutally killed, it is lamentable. The Deputy Mayor of Elak Oku was shot and killed in church meanwhile that of Bamenda II was pulled out of her house and later on shot. What crimes have these women who only want to serve their communities commit? It is regrettable that mothers who have not harmed anyone are treated like this." Mayor Annatou Abrams told The Observer.
In response, North West Governor, Adolphe Lele Lafrique appreciated the women for coming. He expressed the need for them not to be downtrodden in the face of these adversities.
"We are encouraging more women in politics. A lot of people do not want to see the roots North West women have penetrated in the political strata should not be jeopardized. We continue to encourage you all to continue in the strides you are making." Lele Lafrique said.
On the issue of security, the Governor recommended that the Mayors must watch where they go and who they interact with. He cautioned them to mind those with whom they share information and in case of any uncertainties, they should report it to the nearest security unit.
The Female Mayors made up of the Mayor of Belo, Mbu Alice, the Second Deputy Mayor of Tubah, Abong Esther, the first Deputy of Bamenda I, Mrs Ndumu and the 1st Deputy of Bafut, Madam Chesi Miriam, together with their President, left the office of the Governor with renewed hope of fostering unity and engaging their communities in development despite the adversity.
The recent visit of the Female Mayors comes after the brutal killings of Mayor Joko Frida on the 27th October 2024 in Bamenda.
By
Ndi Tsembom Elvis
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