Geneva Convention Violated by Gabon and Cameroon: The Case of Steve Akam

The recent extradition of Cameroonian activist Steve Akam, also known as Ramon Cota, from Gabon to Cameroon has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation, particularly from the diaspora community. A prominent Cameroonian living in the United States has fiercely criticized Gabon's transitional president, Brice Oligui Nguema, for what is seen as a gross violation of international asylum principles and a blatant act of political repression.

**A Long History of Persecution**

"This act of delivering an engaged citizen like Steve Akam reflects the cannibalistic and oppressive nature of the current regime," the Cameroonian expatriate declared. "It is part of a long-standing strategy to silence dissent through the instrumentalization of tribalism and ethno-expansionism, as well as the targeted redistribution of wealth through the dispossession of lands and resources."

The activist's arrest in Libreville and subsequent extradition to Yaoundé have been particularly controversial. Akam, a vocal critic of the Cameroonian government, was detained with the alleged complicity of the Cameroonian ambassador to Gabon. This move has drawn comparisons to historical precedents, where previous Gabonese leaders, such as Omar Bongo Ondimba, refrained from extraditing political opponents, opting instead for more diplomatic resolutions.

**A System of Oppression**

"This incident shows that the current regime spares no one in its pursuit of power," the critic continued. "Even those within the same tribal affiliations are not safe. Akam's only crime was demanding better governance, transparency, and basic utilities like water and electricity. For this, he was handed over to face tyranny in Cameroon."

The critic underscored that the Gabonese government under President Oligui Nguema has failed to uphold the longstanding tradition of protecting political refugees, a principle that was respected even by the most autocratic leaders. "Oligui Nguema lacks the spiritual and political depth required of a president," the expatriate argued. "His decision to extradite Akam shows a complete disregard for the credibility and honor of the Gabonese nation."

**Calls for Accountability**

The activist in the USA urged Cameroonians to seek accountability for this decision. "We need to know who in Cameroon orchestrated this extradition. Was it the Cameroonian ambassador to Gabon? Was it someone high up in the security or intelligence community? President Paul Biya has never shown a preference for having his opponents brought back to Cameroon; he prefers them abroad."

He highlighted the hypocritical nature of the situation, noting that many political exiles from other African nations have found refuge in Cameroon over the years without being extradited. "From Mrs. Deby of Chad to various Rwandans since 1994, Cameroon has been a sanctuary. This protection has always prevailed over political desires."

**A Call to Action**

"This extradition is a malicious and petty act aimed at appeasing Etoudi. It’s a sign of the desperate times within the Cameroonian government as they face health and succession issues," the expatriate said. "Cameroonians must demand transparency and accountability. This is not just about Steve Akam; it’s about the future of our democracy and the protection of human rights."

As international pressure mounts, the case of Ramon Cota has become a poignant example of the challenges faced by political activists in Africa. It underscores the urgent need for stronger international mechanisms to protect dissidents and ensure that political considerations do not override fundamental human rights.