THREE YEARS ON: NTUMFON BARRISTER NDANGOH TAH CALVIN PAYS GLOWING TRIBUTE TO LATE STATESMAN NI JOHN FRU NDI.
Three years after the passing of one of Cameroon’s most influential political figures, the late Statesman Ni John Fru Ndi, family members, political leaders, traditional authorities, friends, supporters, and admirers gathered in Bamenda to honour the enduring legacy of the founding chairman of the Social Democratic Front (SDF).
The solemn memorial service, held on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at the Presbyterian Church (PC) Musang in Bamenda, brought together an impressive congregation of mourners and dignitaries who reflected on the life, sacrifices, and contributions of the man widely regarded as the father of modern opposition politics in Cameroon.
Among the distinguished personalities present was Ntumfon Barrister Ndangoh Tah Calvin, the National Legal Adviser of the Social Democratic Front and one of the party’s most respected legal and political figures. His presence underscored the deep respect and admiration he continues to hold for the late opposition icon whose political vision transformed Cameroon’s democratic landscape.
The memorial ceremony followed the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the SDF, which had earlier convened in Bamenda. Led by SDF National Chairman Hon. Joshua Osih, party leaders and officials joined the Fru Ndi family and sympathisers to pay homage to a leader whose influence continues to resonate across generations.
Speaking after the service, Ntumfon Barrister Ndangoh Tah Calvin delivered an emotional tribute, describing the late Ni John Fru Ndi as a visionary leader, courageous democrat, and selfless servant of the people whose ideals remain relevant even three years after his passing.
“Today, we do not merely remember a man; we celebrate a legacy that transformed the political consciousness of an entire nation,” Barrister Ndangoh said.
“Ni John Fru Ndi dedicated his life to the defense of democracy, justice, freedom, and the dignity of every Cameroonian. He stood firm during some of the most difficult periods in our nation’s history and became a symbol of hope for millions who longed for political change and social justice.”
According to the renowned legal practitioner and humanitarian, Fru Ndi’s greatest achievement was not merely the political movement he built, but the values he instilled in generations of leaders and citizens.
“He taught us that leadership is about service and sacrifice. He showed us that courage is not the absence of fear but the determination to stand for what is right despite overwhelming challenges. His unwavering commitment to the people remains a shining example for all of us who continue to serve our communities and our nation.”
Ntumfon Barrister Ndangoh further emphasized that the responsibility of preserving Fru Ndi’s legacy now rests on the shoulders of current and future generations.
“The best way to honour the memory of Ni John Fru Ndi is not only through speeches and commemorations but through our actions. We must continue to promote peace, justice, unity, dialogue, and democratic values. We must remain committed to building a society where every citizen can live with dignity and where the voices of the people are heard and respected.”
Reflecting on the current challenges facing the nation, the SDF National Legal Adviser called on political leaders across party lines to embrace humility, patriotism, and servant leadership.
“Our country needs leaders who place the interests of the people above personal ambitions. This was one of the defining principles of Ni John Fru Ndi’s political journey. As we remember him today, let us recommit ourselves to the ideals he championed and work collectively for a better Cameroon.”
The memorial service featured prayers, hymns, thanksgiving, and reflections on the life of the late statesman. In her sermon, Reverend Tewang Nancy, Associate Pastor of PC Musang, challenged political leaders to govern with compassion, integrity, and accountability. She urged them to remain faithful stewards of public resources and to prioritize the welfare of the populations they serve.
The event also served as an opportunity to support the church’s ongoing multipurpose hall project. Demonstrating solidarity with the congregation, SDF National Chairman Hon. Joshua Osih donated one million CFA francs towards the construction initiative.
The Governor of the North-West Region, alongside administrative, civil, traditional, and religious authorities, joined worshippers in celebrating the life of a man whose name remains etched in Cameroon’s history.
For many attendees, the gathering was not only a remembrance of a departed leader but also a reaffirmation of the principles he embodied throughout his life.
Born in Baba II, Mezam Division, Ni John Fru Ndi rose to become one of Cameroon’s most recognizable political figures. As founder and long-time leader of the Social Democratic Front, he played a pivotal role in the reintroduction of multiparty democracy and the expansion of political freedoms in Cameroon.
Though he passed away on June 12, 2023, after a prolonged illness, his influence continues to inspire countless Cameroonians both at home and abroad.
As the memorial service came to an end, one message echoed throughout the congregation: while Ni John Fru Ndi may no longer be physically present, the ideals of justice, democracy, freedom, and service that defined his life remain alive in the hearts of those who continue the struggle for a better Cameroon.
For Ntumfon Barrister Ndangoh Tah Calvin and many others gathered at PC Musang, the third anniversary of Fru Ndi’s passing was not simply a moment of mourning, but a renewed call to preserve and advance the noble vision of a statesman whose legacy continues to shape the destiny of a nation.
NTUMFON BARRISTER NDANGOH TAH CALVIN PAYS GLOWING TRIBUTE TO LATE STATESMAN NI JOHN FRU NDI.
