Long awaited NW regional league kickstart in a ‘mad-rush’

The 2023 North West Regional Football League started on Sunday, June 4, 2023, in Bamenda, after several controversies surrounding the competition for months.

The competition which is aimed to secure a place in the National Interpoles started in the region with 14 matches played on the opening day.

There was no official launching ceremony, unlike other regions, where the first day of play is usually colorful.

The scanty nature of the fields during the matches on Sunday was a clear example of how the fans and population of the region have lost interest in the competition.

In other regions like the South West, Littoral, and Centre, the competition started about 2 months ago and some clubs are already on day 9 matches.

It is reported that many regional league players in the North West region are in competition without licenses. The unprofessional nature of the competition could also be seen in the dressing of players and the poor officiating style by match officials.

Fans and football lovers in the region have continued to blame the North West FECAFOOT president, Mbigha Felix, and his executive for failing to acquire licenses for the clubs on time.

Mbigha, who doubles as the Mayor of Bamenda I council has also been criticized on several occasions for ‘mixing politics with football’.

“There’s no good field in Bamenda because he wants that everything should remain in his village Bamendankwe. Look at where children play football, a professional league of this nature. This man is really killing football in this region,” a fan lamented at C.S Futru on Sunday.

During day 1 of the matches, which took place at four different earthly fields, a total of 43 goals were scored.

13 matches have been scheduled for Tuesday, June 6, just a day after. Many club officials and players have been grumbling on social media platforms, advocating that a single day of rest is insufficient.