"Humility was his greatest lesson": Littoral SDF leader reflects on Fru Ndi's political influence

The Regional Chairman of the Social Democratic Front (SDF) for the Littoral Region, Mekep Napgon Kwapnang Job Theophile, has described humility as the most enduring lesson he learnt from the late Ni John Fru Ndi, saying the founding chairman's influence continues to shape the party years after his passing.

Theophile made the remarks in Bamenda during a thanksgiving service organised by the Fru Ndi family and the SDF to commemorate the life and legacy of the veteran opposition leader, who died in June 2023 after more than three decades at the forefront of Cameroon's democratic struggle.

Held at the Presbyterian Church Musang, the anniversary gathering brought together members of the Fru Ndi family, SDF national and regional officials, government authorities, clergy, supporters and well-wishers for prayers and reflections on the life of the man many regard as one of the architects of multiparty democracy in Cameroon.

Speaking after the service, the former Mayor of Douala III said he was delighted to return to Bamenda for the commemoration despite the emotions associated with Fru Ndi's absence.

"I am very glad to be here today. We came to tell him that his legacy, we are going to take it up again. We are going to continue what he left for us," Theophile said.

He noted that the anniversary was more than a remembrance ceremony. According to him, it was an opportunity for party members to renew their commitment to the ideals and vision that Fru Ndi championed throughout his political career.

The Littoral SDF chairman also expressed optimism about the party's prospects in the region, particularly in Douala III, where he believes residents still identify with the SDF's governance record.

"The population is asking for us. They have seen what we have done and now they want us to return and continue our work. We are ready and we are going to do our best," he said.

Beyond politics, however, it was Fru Ndi's personal qualities that appeared to leave the deepest impression on Theophile.

Recalling his frequent visits to Fru Ndi's residence for party meetings, he spoke emotionally about the void left by the late chairman.

"Every day I want to cry because that departure is very heavy for me. But God gives and God takes away," he said.

Mekep Napgon Kwapnang Job Theophile in Fri Ndi's Ntarikon residence 

Job Theophile remembered Fru Ndi as a leader who combined political firmness with personal warmth, often welcoming party officials and supporters with simplicity and humility despite his national stature.

Asked what single lesson he carried from his relationship with the late opposition icon, he did not hesitate.

"Humility," he replied. "He always encouraged me to continue as I was doing because humility is the best thing in the world."

For Theophile, preserving Fru Ndi's legacy means putting those values into practice and ensuring that the vision he left behind continues to guide the party's future.

More than three years after his death, Ni John Fru Ndi's influence remains visible within the SDF, with many party faithful viewing the anniversary as both a moment of remembrance and a renewed call to uphold the principles that defined his life and leadership.

By Hilltopvoices Web Team 

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