There are signs Yong Sports Academy (YOSA) FC of Bamenda, may for the first time since its founding in 2004 by late Bobe Yong Bobe Francis be embroiled in an ownership dispute.
The dispute began when a communique (not signed) appeared on YOSA's official page on June 21, 2024, announcing a major change in leadership. According to the statement, the Yong family decided to sell 80% of their shares to the Mimba Empire, an American company owned by the Mimba Brothers, Silas and Emma. This decision placed Mr. Emma Mimba at the helm as the new president of YOSA.
"It's a new dawn at Yong Sports Academy as our beloved club is embarking on a new journey under the leadership of a new president, Mr. Emma Mimba," the communique read.
It highlighted Mimba's extensive experience in football, both as a player and as a professional sports manager, emphasizing his academic background and successful career, which included a stint in Portugal where he helped Santa Maria achieve promotion to the third tier.
However, just days later, a conflicting document has surfaced online, casting doubt on the legitimacy of this leadership change. The press release, issued by the management team led by Chi Mitterrand, declared the earlier communique unauthorized and reaffirmed the current management’s control over the club.
"The management of Yong Sport Academy (YOSA) informs the public and football family that it does not recognize the press release which has been circulating on social networks since the 21st of June 2024," the document stated.
"The executive members of Yong Sport elected at the general assembly meeting of the 2nd September 2023 led by Mr. Chi Chinda Chido Mitterrand as president are the only ones responsible to take such actions on behalf of Yong Sport Academy." the release added
Chi Mitterrand, who led YOSA through the 2023-2024 season, achieving commendable results, expressed his commitment to maintaining stability and continuing the club’s progress.
"If there's a need for a change, the right procedures will be followed to put in place a new management," the release emphasized, insisting that any changes must occur through a general assembly with full participation from all stakeholders.
When contacted by The Hilltop Mail Newspaper, Mitterrand confirmed he authored the disclaimer but declined to provide further details about the underlying issues with the Yong family.
The Yong family is yet to make a statement on the matter since the initial communique.
With the new season approaching, clarity and unity within the club's management are urgently needed to ensure YOSA's continued success and stability.
By Nfor Nkfu
Email: hilltopvoicesinfo@gmail.com
Tel: 6 94 71 85 77