By Lawrence Fahnwi
The Oku Fondom, one of the most esteemed and respected in the Northwest Regions, is home to the Oku people, who belong to the Tikar ethnic group. This clan comprises 36 villages and approximately 180,000 inhabitants, with many Oku indigenes residing in the United States, particularly in Minnesota, Texas, the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia.
His Royal Majesty (HRM) Fon Ngum IV was the guest of honor at the Oku Cultural and Development Association (OCDA) Convention, held from July 26th to 28th, 2024, in Maryland. The mantra for the OCDA 2024 convention was “Bridging generations; honoring our past, building our future.” HRM Fon Ngum IV ascended to the throne on December 18, 2021, following the disappearance of his predecessor, Fon Sintieh II. He holds several important roles within the Oku Fondom: cultural custodian, community leader, diplomatic representative, educational advocate, and development promoter. These roles highlight his diverse responsibilities and his dedication to the welfare and advancement of the Oku Fondom. In a chat with Pan African Visions, HRM Fon Ngum IV shared insights on his visit and other developments in Oku.
Your Majesty, may we know about the purpose of your visit to the United States?
HRM Fon Ngum IV: My presence in the United States was primarily for an exchange program supported by the US Government, which aims to foster cultural exchange and understanding. Additionally, I was there to meet with my people. Since there was a cultural program organized by the Oku Cultural and Development Association (OCDA), as the custodian of the customs and traditions of the kingdom, it was my duty to be present and support this important event. This convention served as a crucial platform for promoting our rich cultural heritage and fostering unity among Oku people both in the diaspora and back home.
Oku boasts of a rich and diverse cultural and traditional heritage. As the Fon, do you take pride in the preservation of these attributes ?
HRM Fon Ngum IV: Absolutely, I am immensely proud of our cultural and traditional heritage. Despite the influences of modernity, the people of Oku have managed to preserve their customs, language, and traditions. We continue to celebrate our festivals, practice our rituals, and uphold the values passed down by our ancestors.
As the honored guest at the Oku Cultural and Development Association (OCDA) Convention that took place from July 26th to 28th, 2024, did the Fon have a special message from the palace that you would like to share with us ?
HRM Fon Ngum IV: My special message to all the attendees of the OCDA Convention was one of unity and cultural pride. Let us use this opportunity to reconnect with our roots, celebrate our heritage, and work together towards the development of our community. Our strength lies in our unity and our shared cultural identity.
Could His Majesty share any other upcoming projects planned for Oku?
HRM Fon Ngum IV: Yes, there are several ongoing and future projects aimed at improving the lives of our people. These include the construction of new palace buildings for events and accommodation, which will serve as a hub for cultural activities and a welcome center for visitors. Additionally, we are dedicated to the conservation of the Kilum Mountain Forest, our Green Inheritance, through regular tree planting and other environmental initiatives to preserve our natural heritage. These projects, along with the development of educational and healthcare facilities, are crucial for the sustainable growth of our community.
Your Majesty, since your ascension to the throne in 2021, what have been the key challenges and notable achievements during your reign?
HRM Fon Ngum IV: Ascending the throne has come with its set of challenges, including navigating modern issues while preserving traditional values. I took over in the heart of a crisis that has severely impacted the social fabric of our community, and rebuilding has been a significant challenge, compounded by the rise in insecurity. However, I believe that constant dialogue with all actors will enable us to build back better and foster our development. The only force I have is resilience, and it has been crucial in facing these challenges. Despite these obstacles, we have seen improved infrastructure, better healthcare access, and educational advancements in Oku.
As the father of Oku, how does Fon Ngum IV perceive the relationship between OCDANS residing in Oku and those in the diaspora?
HRM Fon Ngum IV: The relationship between OCDANS at home and in the diaspora is strong and symbiotic. Those in the diaspora play a crucial role in supporting development projects back home through remittances and expertise. Conversely, the cultural and traditional practices maintained at home provide a sense of identity and continuity for those abroad.
What special message would the Fon like to convey to the young OCDANS who were born, bred, or raised in the United States and across the globe?
HRM Fon Ngum IV: My message to the young OCDANS is to embrace their cultural heritage with pride. Stay connected to your roots, learn the language, and participate in cultural activities. Education and cultural identity can go hand in hand, and it is your duty to carry forward the legacy of our ancestors.
Are there any plans for Fon Ngum to visit other parts of the world to meet and engage with his people?
HRM Fon Ngum IV: Yes, I plan to visit other parts of the world to connect with our people. These visits are important for fostering a sense of community and belonging among Oku people globally. It also provides me with the opportunity to understand their challenges and aspirations better.
Any final message that the Fon will like to share with the people of Oku, both at home and abroad?
HRM Fon Ngum IV: My final message to the people of Oku, both at home and abroad, is to remain united and focused on our shared goals. Together, we can achieve great things for our community. Let us continue to preserve our rich cultural heritage and work towards a prosperous future for Oku.
