Cameroonian opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary has accused the government of launching a campaign of repression and targeted abductions following the disputed October 12 presidential election, which he insists he won.
In a statement seen by Daily Trust on Friday, Tchiroma alleged that two members of his family and his personal chef were abducted in the northern city of Garoua on Wednesday night. He described the incident as part of a broader crackdown on dissent and claimed the government was using fear to maintain its grip on power.
“It looks like an open war against the Cameroonian people,” he declared. “They spare nothing: assassinations, repression, and other abuses. They do not want peace. For them, every means must be used to remain in power, because they fear the consequences if they leave, hence the extreme violence of their actions. That is why, yesterday, they kidnapped two members of my family here in Garoua, as well as my personal cook.”
Tchiroma condemned what he called an effort to intimidate him, warning that such actions would only deepen public resentment against the government. “Do you think you can pressure me with such acts? All you will succeed in doing is alienating the people even more,” he said, demanding the immediate release of his abducted relatives and all others he claims were arbitrarily detained in the post-election unrest.
In a subsequent message released on Friday morning, the opposition leader revealed that he had fled his residence in Garoua and was now under the protection of what he described as “elements of the loyalist army.” He expressed gratitude to those soldiers, saying they had “shown patriotism” by ensuring his safe relocation and protection.
“I thank the loyalist army for showing patriotism by leading me to safety and protecting me now,” Tchiroma said, adding that he would soon deliver a “solemn address” to the nation. He urged his supporters and those detained to remain steadfast, vowing to continue his struggle against what he called a “regime clinging to power through fear and violence.”
“I call on all those who have been arbitrarily arrested, and on the members of my family who have been kidnapped: hold on — I will not rest until this regime returns your victory,” he declared.
The latest development comes amid heightened tension in northern Cameroon, where protests have flared and security forces have intensified patrols following President Paul Biya’s controversial re-election. The government has yet to respond to Tchiroma’s allegations, but human rights groups have voiced growing concern over reports of arbitrary arrests and the excessive use of force against opposition supporters.
Tchiroma’s remarks have further fuelled speculation about deepening divisions within the Cameroonian military, with his reference to “loyalist elements” suggesting possible fractures in the country’s security apparatus. For now, his whereabouts remain undisclosed, and his call for defiance has added a new layer of uncertainty to a nation already on edge after a fiercely contested election.
