The Nso Cultural and Development Association (NSODA) has issued directives to its branches and community associations to coordinate prayers for the late Cardinal Christian Wiyghan Tumi following a royal decree declaring Sunday, October 25, 2026, Cardinal Tumi-Tribute Day.
In a memorandum dated October 20, NSODA President General, Shey Tadze Adamu Mbiydzela, called on branch presidents, community development associations, leaders of Nso socio-cultural groups and traditional authorities to mobilise their communities and liaise with religious leaders to implement the directive.
The memorandum follows a press release issued on October 19 by the Royal Community Dialogue Coordination Committee, announcing the decision by the Fon of Nso, Sehm Mbinglo I, to honour the late cardinal for his contributions to faith, justice, peace and reconciliation during the Anglophone crisis.
Under the arrangements, Catholic parishes are expected to book Mass intentions for the repose of Cardinal Tumi’s soul and in thanksgiving for his life of faith, sacrifice and service. Presbyterian, Baptist and other Christian denominations have also been asked to organise dedicated prayer sessions during their Sunday services.
Muslim faithful will hold special prayers during Friday congregational prayers on October 23, two days before the main tribute day.
NSODA has instructed each branch and regional association to appoint reference and lead persons for the towns and cities under their jurisdiction. The designated coordinators will work with local church leaders, imams and mosque committees to ensure participation.
The prayers will focus on the repose of Cardinal Tumi’s soul, thanksgiving for his role in the Fon’s return to the Nso Palace, and appeals for lasting peace, justice and reconciliation in Nso and across Cameroon.The tribute draws on events surrounding the abduction of the Fon and Cardinal Tumi by armed separatists in November 2020.
According to the royal press release, the Fon recounts in his book, The Fon of Nso and the Anglophone Crisis: A Testimony for Reconciliation and Peace, Cardinal Tumi’s commitment to seeing him return to the Nso Palace.
After an earlier failed return attempt and their abduction at Baba, the Fon eventually arrived at the palace on the night of April 2, 2021. Cardinal Tumi died in the early hours of April 3, 2021, aged 90.
The Fon views the timing of his return and the cardinal’s death as a profound spiritual moment, believing that the cardinal lived to witness his return to the palace before passing away hours later.
The royal statement says the circumstances surrounding the two events should encourage renewed hope, reflection and a collective commitment to the sanctity of human life and the pursuit of peace.
The Local Organising Committee for the Fon’s Community Dialogue and Presentation of the Royal Publication will coordinate arrangements for the Nso community in Douala.
The community dialogue is scheduled for Saturday, October 24, followed by the tribute prayers on Sunday, October 25, when the Fon is expected to join his people in Douala.
NSODA is also responsible for coordinating follow-up on prayers in churches within and outside Cameroon through the relevant branch and regional structures.
Traditional rites and celebrations in honour of Cardinal Tumi within Nso are expected to be announced later.
The royal statement describes the tribute as an act of remembrance and a renewed call to pursue the lasting peace for which Cardinal Tumi advocated during his lifetime.
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