Cameroonian Official Roland Ewane Held Captive: Family Desperate as Government Remains Silent

The Divisional Officer, who was abducted by rebels, is enduring inhumane conditions. He pleads and cries, calling for contributions to the ransom. Beyond the speeches, a servant of the nation is in grave danger.

Since October 1, 2024, both Ewane and the municipal accountant of Idabato have been held captive and tortured. The kidnappers have demanded 700,000 USD (around 435 million CFA) for their release.

A Family in Despair

Ewane’s wife is in deep distress, unable to comprehend the unbearable situation she faces. Since her husband’s abduction, she has been desperate for answers. Despite her sleepless nights and tireless efforts, no substantial action has been taken by the authorities to resolve the situation. When she reached out to the Cameroonian government, she was instead told to stay in prayer, as if prayer alone could solve this dire crisis.

Despite these heart-wrenching circumstances, the government has taken no significant action to reassure the family or offer any hope. The pain of her daily tears has become the constant reality for her and their children.

Government's Indifference

Minister Atangana Nji, usually quick to act in suppressing civil society protests, has remained silent in this case. As the minister responsible for the Divisional Officer's welfare, his absence in addressing the crisis has only intensified the family's despair. Instead of providing support, he reportedly dismissed his wife’s pleas for assistance.

How can a government be so indifferent in the face of such a situation? Have these people lost their humanity?

A Desperate Plea from the Family

In an exclusive interview with Canal 2 International, Rose Ewane, the wife of the kidnapped Divisional Officer, shared her pain and frustration. She detailed how her husband was abducted on October 1 from the Bakassi Peninsula by pirates, who have since escalated their threats. The captors have explicitly stated that they may kill him if their demands are not met. In addition to the ransom, they are asking for specific equipment and the release of their comrades currently held in Buea.

This tragedy underscores the ongoing dangers in the region and the grave consequences of a government that remains unmoved by the suffering of its citizens.