Jun 20, 2014

UNPO Conveys Condolences For Loss of Chief Ayamba


Brussels, 20 June 2014 - On behalf of the UNPO Presidency, Secretariat and Members, we would like to express our sincerest condolences after the passing away of Mr. Ayamba Ette Otun on 18 June 2014. Chief Ayamba reached the blessed age of 91, and passed away at the New Life Hospital in Mamfe after briefly struggling with illness. Our thoughts are with his family and friends, and with the people of Southern Cameroon.

Mr. Ayamba Ette Otun, National Chairman of the Southern Cameroons National Council (SCNC), dedicated his life to protecting and promoting the rights of the Southern Cameroons. His activism for the right to self-determination has been relentless. On 31 December 1999, Chief Ayamba, together with Justice Ebong and Pa Sabum, proclaimed the independence and restoration of the statehood of the Southern Cameroons. They were later arrested and released 18 months later without trial by the Biya junta in La Republique du Cameroun. After the death of Dr. Luma Martin, Chief Ayamba was elected SCNC National Chairman.

Ever since, he has vowed never to shave his beard until the Southern Cameroons is completely free. With the passing away of Chief Ayamba, the Southern Cameroon movement for self-determination has lost a great leader.UNPO stands with the people of Southern Cameroon in this difficult moment, and hopes the legacy of Chief Ayamba may inspire many.