Anicet Ekane stood for the possibility of a Cameroon governed by integrity and unity. His courage must not be extinguished by the injustice he suffered. The enduring tribute to his life will be a country where no citizen fears dying at the hands of their own government — a Cameroon where truth does not perish behind bars.
By Uchiba Nelson
December 2, 2025 – The shocking abduction, torture, and reported death in detention of Anicet Ekane, a respected opposition leader and advocate of political reform, has reignited deep concerns about the state of governance and human rights in Cameroon. His ordeal symbolizes more than an attack on one man — it signals a profound breakdown of constitutional order, where the structures of power meant to shield citizens have instead become instruments of intimidation and violence.
A CRIME AGAINST JUSTICE AND HUMANITY
The rule of law rests on three sacred principles: No arrest without a legal basis. No detention without due process. No punishment without a fair trial. In the case of Anicet Ekane, all three pillars collapsed. His arrest occurred without proper warrant. His detention lacked transparency. Disturbing reports detail how he was tortured, denied critical medical care, and left to suffer without oxygen or appropriate treatment — ultimately costing him his life. Governments exist to preserve life. When they instead destroy it, legitimacy itself is stripped away.
A TREASONOUS VIOLATION OF DUTY
Treason is not only a crime against a political leader — it is a crime against the people. When state agents harm, silence, or eliminate a citizen under their custody: They betray the Constitution. They violate the trust of the population. They turn state power into a weapon of fear. The death of Anicet Ekane therefore constitutes a treasonous act, one that undermines the very foundation of national sovereignty.
PART OF A DARK PATTERN
This tragic event is not an anomaly. The Cameroon of today — especially in conflict regions and political contexts — has witnessed a troubling rise in state-hostile practices: Mass arrests of peaceful protesters and political opponents. Extrajudicial killings and assassination attempts. Burning of homes and communities, particularly in crisis zones. Enforced disappearances, with families left in anguish. Dehumanising rhetoric branding citizens as “terrorists,” “rats,” or “cockroaches” Censorship and blackout tactics, including targeted internet shutdowns. Harassment and imprisonment of journalists, lawyers, and rights defenders These are not isolated “excesses.” They increasingly appear to be governmental strategy.
WHEN WORDS SET THE STAGE FOR ATROCITIES
History warns that genocide begins not with guns, but with words — words that strip human beings of their dignity. When those close to power engage in: Incitement against entire groups. Language suggesting extermination. Messages equating dissent with criminality. It cultivates an environment where cruelty becomes acceptable, and violence becomes policy.
WHO MUST ANSWER TO THE NATION?
As Cameroonians reflect on the steady erosion of rights and security, attention inevitably shifts to those who command state machinery: President Paul Biya — ultimate authority over all national security operations. Security forces — especially units known for operating without transparency. Government officials — directing suppression of dissent and civic freedoms. Aligned media networks — promoting propaganda and dehumanising narratives. Every level of involvement — from orders given to acts committed to rhetoric amplified — must one day answer to justice.
A CRISIS OF NATIONAL DESTINY
The death of Anicet Ekane compels urgent national reflection. Critical questions now confront Cameroon: Will power continue to oppress those who speak for justice? Will fundamental rights be respected or crushed by fear? Will impunity reign or will accountability finally prevail? How these questions are answered will determine whether Cameroon remains a state built on laws — or descends into a system ruled by force.
A CALL TO RESPONSIBILITY AND ACTION
The protection of human life cannot wait. To safeguard citizens and restore trust, the following must occur: A credible, independent investigation into the treatment and death of Anicet Ekane. Urgent protection for political actors, journalists, and civil society. Immediate cessation of torture, arbitrary detentions, and enforced silence. Real consequences — legal and political — for those complicit in abuses. Justice delayed is justice denied. Justice denied endangers the entire nation.
THE LEGACY OF COURAGE
Anicet Ekane stood for the possibility of a Cameroon governed by integrity and unity. His courage must not be extinguished by the injustice he suffered. The enduring tribute to his life will be a country where no citizen fears dying at the hands of their own government — a Cameroon where truth does not perish behind bars. Thanks to the United Nations and the international community for upholding universal human rights and focusing global attention on this critical moment for Cameroon.
Uchiba Nelson
Leave feedback about this