West: journalists mourn murdered colleague
Journalists and communicators in the West region under the banner of the West regional chapter of the Cameroon Journalists’ Trade Union (CJTU) have this Wednesday January 25th paid tributes to murdered colleague, Martinez Zogo.
The media men from all 8 divisions making up the West, and beyond, gathered at the esplanade of UCCAO in Bafoussam all dressed in black to mourn the animator and Station Manager of Amplitude FM whose remains were discovered last Sunday January 22nd in an advanced state of decomposition at Ebogo III, in the outskirts of Yaounde.
Gathered in their numbers with candles, the media men and women carried along some placards bearing messages saying: ” No to the assassination of Journalists”, “Justice for Samuel Wazizi”, “Justice for Martinez Zogo and others”, “Journalists are neither your predators nor your preys”.
Also during the gathering, was an inter-religious prayer session that was made, asking for the rest of his soul and for God to free the press from the hands of oppressors.
” We received news confirming the assassination of our colleague Martinez Zogo by men who work in darkness and against freedom of expression and of opinion,” said Leopold Ngeulo, General Coordinator of the West Media Club who were also part of the gathering.
” It is certain the Zogo was killed because he was exercising his duties. We have gathered this day in Bafoussam to condemn with the last energy this act which comes once again to confirm that freedom of expression, opinion and press are still very lacking in our country,” added Leopold Ngeulo.
He continued by calling on competent authorities to open an investigation and bring to book the culprits.
” We, media men and women will not relent our efforts. Yesterday, it was Samuel Wazizi, today it is Martinez Zogo, tomorrow whose turn will it be?”
The President of the West Regional Chapter of CJTU, René Mbonjeu on his part, called on Journalists the West to work with professionalism while also joining his voice to that of others to condemn the act.
” Today we decided to be dressing black to show our concern in the tragic death of our comrade. Now the question is to know who will be the next target”.
“Many journalists have been attacked many times even at the entrance of their homes. We also use this opportunity to extend our sincere condolences to the bereaved families,” he concluded.
The journalism profession in Cameroon has become very risky as many have in the past been receiving death threats for investigating and reporting issues concerning highly ranked personalities as was the case with Martinez Zogo. Samuel Wazizi dissappeared and was never seen, Paul Chouta on his part who has been revealed by undisclosed sources as next on the list has been beaten to near death on multiple occasions. Others have been forced to go on exile.
