Security concerns mar Youth Day atmosphere in Bamenda

The splendour and pageantry atmosphere that usually characterized National Day activities in the northwest regional capital of Bamenda was completely absent this year as security concerns and the late arrival of most dignitaries took away a vital ingredient of the celebration. Masses gathered to watch the events unfold.

The looming threat of terrorists attack meant that no one was allowed to stand or walk directly opposite the grandstand which usually hold thousands of onlookers.

This time, that part just like the rest of the ceremonial ground was manned by combat police officers who were heavily armed.

The early arrival of the governor Lele L’Afrique at exactly 9:08 am meant the entrances to the grandstand were closed leaving several dignitaries including some service heads and regional chiefs outside.

Some had to negotiate their way through the back entrance after pleading with security and protocol officials while others simply had to head back home.

Curious onlookers could only watch from the Santa Park or after the grand stand from the Congress Hall entrance towards the Main Market and were unable to watch the performance of their children, schools or groups.

“I did not even see my kid march pass because we were fighting for a vantage spot to watch the march pass” a disgruntled mother told our reporter.

“I only came here to see my child’s school perform and to see what other schools can offer” she continued as many onlookers nodded their heads in approval.

For others even with this setting, it was good because it created ample space for all to march pass unhindered portraying a mature and secure atmosphere, another lady told me.

The march pass in Bamenda lasted close to four hours with over 300 nursery, primary, secondary and tertiary schools, youth groups, associations, movements and political parties taking part in the march pass.

Northwest governor at the end expressed complete satisfaction with the youths for turning out massively.

“We are really really happy with the successful organization of the march pass here in the grandstand, we have seen children from the grassroots to the highest level of education marching; we are proud to be Cameroonians and proud to place their support to the head of state in the fight against Boko Haram. We saw all the messages delivered through the banners and placards students displayed…” he said.

The event was marked by the presentation of the Governor’s Award of Excellence to some meritorious youths for their outstanding achievement.