By Nchendzengang Tatah
The unresignation of Chief Fende Ngeke Bernard following the scheduling of a consultative talk for his replacement made June 12 an eventful day in the third-class chiefdom at the foot of Mount Cameroon in the Fako Division of the South West region. The history of Likoko Membea according to oral accounts has not seen a chief resign.
Crowds had first gathered at two separate locations to observe a consultative talk scheduled by the Divisional Officer of Buea, Abba Abdouraman. At the Presbyterian Church Likoko Membea field, where Chief Ngeke was installed. His close aide, Joseph Njie Maive said the chief intended to present his son to the administration as his official administrative representative.
Battle for throne
Conversely, a letter dated November 4, 2025, addressed to the DO had rather indicated, “I (Chief Ngeke) have decided to hand over the throne to my son Prince Michael Mokake Fende.” He had outlined a failing health as the cause of his resignation.
At the esplanade of the Government School Likoko Membea was another group. The majority of whom paid allegiance to a chieftaincy aspirant they hope will replace Ngeke. They argued that the chief couldn’t hand the throne to his son as chieftaincy in the community was not simply hereditary.
Chief Ngeke unresigns
The planned consultative talks didn’t hold. A letter dated June 11, 2026, in response to the scheduled talks signed by Chief Ngeke stated that, ‘there shall be no transition and I remain the only legitimate person that incarnates the throne of Likoko Membea.”
He further explained that he had regained his health considerably and had changed his mind towards his previous decision. At 86, Chief Ngeke was seen walking and waving this day. However, he didn’t grant reporters an interview. He has been chief for 36 years.
Kingmakers oppose self
Ewange Edward speaking in the capacity of kingmaker of the Wonya Bole Liwo family, claimed that the chief’s initial letter had been misunderstood by the administration.
While Nganje Thomas who identified as a natural king maker of the royal family explained that the royal family (Bwitolo) is constituted of three brothers and a sister. He accused Chief Ngeke of attempting to manipulate the family by failing to consult with them before designating his son.
Loud absence
Moreover, the absence of Senator Mbella Moki Charles around the June 12 events was conspicuous. He was actually spotted in Yaounde on June 11 at official funeral honours for Senator Chief Tabe Tando.
Observers have wondered if the fierce and fiery politician and representative, Mbella Moki known for his outings especially regarding the patrimony of Fako and the South West could look away from the unfolding in his own backyard. Mbella Moki hails from Likoko Membea, where he has built his house just about 500 metres away from the Palace.
