In a serene garden once adorned with various species of roses meticulously planted by the late Social Democratic Front (SDF) Chairman Ni John Fru Ndi now stands a towering mausoleum. The structure, both a symbol of legacy and love, is the final resting place of Fru Ndi and his wife, Rose Ndi. On Saturday, 14 December 2024, many gathered in Baba II village to witness the unveiling and blessing of this edifice.
The event, attended by dignitaries including North West Governor Lele Lafrique Adolphe Tchoffo Deben and the President of the North West Regional Assembly Prof Fru Angwafo III, marked the 550th day since Fru Ndi’s passing. This added a layer of reflection as family members, political allies, and admirers paid homage to the late statesman.
The solemn blessing ceremony message was delivered by the Rev Simon Muntoh, Parish Pastor of Presbyterian Church Akum Mile 4, who drew inspiration from Proverbs 10:7: "The memory of the righteous is blessed."
Rev Muntoh described Fru Ndi as an advocate for “bloodless change,” a champion of democracy, and a unifier of opposition forces in Cameroon. He lauded his efforts in promoting transparency, good governance, and justice, emphasising that Fru Ndi believed peace could only prevail where justice was upheld.
“Fru Ndi has left a legacy as a strong family man and a leader who understood that unity and justice are essential for societal harmony,” Rev Muntoh told the gathering.
The current SDF National Chairman, Joshua Osih, expressed his gratitude to Fru Ndi’s family and party members who worked tirelessly to construct the mausoleum despite challenging conditions in Baba II. Osih described the structure as more than a private resting place.
“This is a national place. When peace returns to our country, this site will become a pilgrimage destination for those who wish to honour a hero who contributed immensely to peace, justice, and democracy in Cameroon.” Joshua Osih www.hilltopvoices.com
Osih, visibly emotional, reflected on his years of mentorship under Fru Ndi.
“He guided me during his lifetime, and his spirit continues to inspire me. Cameroon was privileged to have a son like Ni John Fru Ndi a man whose greatness even his critics came to recognise after his passing.” he added
Dr Tina Fru Ndi, Fru Ndi’s successor at the family level, was introduced to guests during the prayer service. Speaking with visible emotion, she expressed her pride in the family’s unity and determination to respect their father's wish.
“It is a blessing that despite the challenges, we have come together to celebrate a life well-lived. Pa’s vision motivated us to build this mausoleum. He was a man who appreciated beauty in nature, and this structure embodies his values—joy, peace, humility, and integrity.” she said
Dr Tina noted that Fru Ndi’s commitment to enhancing love and unity should serve as an inspiration for all Cameroonians.
“Pa loved people unconditionally. He believed that leadership was about service, not status. My wish for Cameroonians is unity, love, and recognising each other’s strengths.” she noted
The mausoleum’s design reflects Fru Ndi’s ideals, with symbolic pillars representing values he held dear. As Dr Tina explained, the structure serves as a reminder to carry forward his voice and legacy.
“Pa planted roses where others planted crops because he saw beauty where others didn’t. This mausoleum is an extension of his vision a place that unites us in remembering what he stood for.”
As the sun set on the rose gardens of Baba II, the unveiling of the mausoleum marked not just the culmination of a family’s efforts but the immortalisation of a man whose impact on Cameroon transcends politics.
According Mayor Fongu Cletus of the Bamenda III Council, Yong Jacques and Yong Afumbom from the family of late Bobe Yong Francis (another emblematic figure in the region.), Benjamin and Divine Fru Ndi late Fru Ndi's children alongside many who were present, it was not merely an unveiling, it was a reaffirmation of a commitment to uphold the values of a leader whose life was devoted to justice, peace, and the betterment of his people.
By Bakah Derick
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