Bamenda: MINAT boss rallies security forces ahead of election, hands presidential gifts.

The security meeting brought together authorities such as the North West Governor, Adolphe Lele Lafrique, Senior Divisional Officers, SDOs, Divisional Officers, DO’s, and security authorities.

During the meeting with senior administrative and defense officials, the Minister assured the population that measures were in place for peaceful elections in the restive North West Region. 

He dismissed separatist threats and insisted that the voting would proceed unhindered on October 12 across the region.

“We will not tolerate any disorder. The process will be free and fair and carried out in a secured environment. Those who want to cry should cry at home,” Atanga Nji declared.

He condemned attacks blamed on armed groups, describing them as “Anglophones marginalising Anglophones” through kidnappings, extortion, and school burnings. 

The Minister also stressed that Elections Cameroon, ELECAM, remains the only body to pilot the affairs of the election, cautioning political actors to seek legal redress in case of disputes. 

To guarantee logistics on voting day, Minister Atanga Nji added that ballot materials for enclaved areas would be airlifted by helicopter days before the election.

“Peace, security and tranquility should be assured and maintained before, during and after the election. The administrative authorities should ensure that the laws are respected,” Minister Nji added.

Donation to population, motorbike riders

Later in the day, the MINAT boss switched roles to special envoy of the presidential couple, overseeing the distribution of 500 bags of rice, 500 blankets, and a month of free fuel for commercial motorbike riders in Bamenda.

Addressing beneficiaries, he urged them to back President Paul Biya at the election. 

“Scratch President Biya’s back and he will scratch yours,” he told the crowd, while warning motorbike riders against joining separatists-imposed ghost towns.

On his part, Bamenda City Mayor, Paul Achobong, praised residents who defied boycott calls to attend the event, describing their presence as a show of courage.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3586 of Monday October 06, 2025