"North West Traditional Rulers Disavow Chief of Koshin for Conferring Ntumfoyn Title on Samuel Eto'o

Traditional rulers from the North West region residing in Douala have publicly disavowed the Third Class Chief of Koshin, following his decision to confer the title of Ntumfoyn on Samuel Eto’o Fils. This act has been met with significant backlash, as many believe it violates the customs and traditions of the region. The President of the North West House of Chiefs, His Majesty Fon Yakum Kevin Teuvih, has stated that the title of Ntumfoyn, which means “Fon of Fons,” should not have been bestowed by a Third Class Chief. The traditional rulers have demanded that Eto’o return the artefacts associated with the title.

The controversy began when Samuel Eto’o was crowned Ntumfoyn by Fon Ju Wilson, the Third Class Chief of Koshin, on January 17, 2025. The ceremony, which took place in Douala, was widely publicized and received backlash from both North Westerners and citizens from other regions. The President of the North West House of Chiefs, His Majesty Fon Yakum Kevin Teuvih, expressed his disagreement in a statement, stating that the act contradicts the customs and traditions of the Fungom people.

The title of Ntumfoyn, which translates to “Fon of Fons,” is a prestigious title that should only be conferred by higher-ranking traditional authorities. The traditional rulers argue that the Third Class Chief of Koshin did not have the authority to bestow such a title and that the act has desecrated their cultural heritage. They have called for Samuel Eto’o to return the traditional artefacts associated with the title and have disassociated themselves from the coronation.

The controversy has sparked a broader discussion about the role of traditional rulers and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. Many believe that the incident highlights the need for greater respect for traditional customs and the proper channels for conferring titles.