Pa we will forever miss you in the quarter. No one else can ever be humle like you. Your charismatic ways are examples for all of us to emulate. You were always the Father of the quarter and will remain to be. Adieu Papa

Dear Bambot

Rest in perfect peace where saints rejoice forever.
No more toiling
No more sorrow
No more weeping
No more pain.

The divine tie that bonded us the day your dear brother (Ba Tanyi Dr. Elias Nwana) got married to my sister (Manyi Mrs. Odilia Nwana nee Domatob) lives on to cherish your rich legacy.

We thanks God for the lives you touched.
Good Night Bambot.

Frida

Rev. Fr Eric Fru
It was so hard to believe that you are gone. but my heart overwhelmed with joy knowing you are going on a good journey, to our creator. The God you served soo humbly. You thought me humility and with your advice, i have gained a great deal. Pa Sama, i will always put you in my prayers. Adios Pa.

A great man is gone, a friend. Pa you were among those who always encouraged me in my ministry. After each mass you use to give me your appreciation of my homilies. Though my language was poor you kept encouraging me and that made me work harder. Thanks for your friendship, thanks for your advices. You have been a father for me there in bamenda. The only thing I can do for you now is to give you a befitting burial a son can give to his father. You remain in my heart and be assured of my prayers. Remember us too over there. May your soul rest in perfect peace. Fr Albert Awana, CFIC

The Fongod Kids (Buma, Sema, Bola & Bisona Fongod)

Our grandfather/granduncle Bambot,

Gone but never forgotten they say. We attest to having 2 grandfathers on our maternal side as you’ve always been a rock for us over our entire upbringing. Spending summers in Bamenda or throughout our time in boarding school form a mesmerising feeling as you educated us on the Christian faith alongside the importance of education & morality. We would never visit Njimafor without stopping by the house and fondly recall how euphoric you’ll be by our sights and start calling us by names “Buma Buma, Sema Sema, Bola Bola…” after having ensured each of us sat by you on your special chair. We erase every memory of pain you suffered over your last year on this Earth and bliss over the wonderful life you lived. May you Rest In Peace & until we meet again.

TINA FONGOD (Na Genla, Daughter and Mother)

God saw that he was getting tired,
A cure was not to be.
So He put His arms around him
and whispered, "Come with Me."
With tearful eyes, we watched him suffer,
And saw him fade away.
Although we loved him dearly,
We could not make him stay.
A golden heart stopped beating,
Hard working hands to rest.
God broke our hearts to prove to us
He only takes "The Best".


Do you have a day in your life that you would like to erase from your memory? I do - May 2o, 2016 was the day I long to forget. I lost my dearest Uncle that day, who was more like a father to me.
He was such a great human being - so strong, bold, jovial, a rare larger-than-life kind of character - a pillar that supported our whole family! Such a huge loss has definitely created a vacuum, one that suffocates me every time I think of him. As I think of the absolute finality of death and realise that I can no longer speak to him, I rue the missed opportunities – the conversations I could have had with him. I suppose that is the cruelty of death – and life
A beloved Father/brother/uncle/son to his children, sisters and brothers and a beautiful uncle who was loved and worshiped by his nieces and nephews – and most of all, his dear, dear wife Mary, as he always called her endearingly.

I have so many fond memories with you that I will cherish forever. You took care and sacrificed a lot for us. You did so much for me but I just feel that I could not do enough for you, as you spent those painful last days on earth. So here is a tribute to one of the best people I ever knew!!! You will be much missed and we all love you!

My father/son belongs to the heavens now and his spirit walks among those of his dear mother, father and brother – uncles and aunts and cousins too. I want to used this medium to express my deep appreciation to our beautiful (inside and outside), devoted, caring, selfless, mother, Ma Mary Sama(Ma May) as I fondly call her, for all the love, devotion and care she showered on our dear father.
I don’t know what else to say about my uncle except that I was extremely fortunate to have him as my father and now that he is gone, I miss you. Rest in peace, in the arms of the angels, as they carry you to heaven, Bambot, my son”





We little knew that morning
God was to call your name.
In life we loved you dearly,
in death we do the same.
It broke our hearts to lose you,
You did not go alone.
For part of us went with you
The day God called you home.
You left us beautiful memories,
Your love is still our guide,
And though we cannot see you,
You are always at our side.
Our family chain is broken,
and nothing seems the same,
But as God calls us one by one,
The chain will link again

HYACINTH SAMA NWANA (SON)

I am not one for doing posthumous tributes as I feel my actions/ relationships to the deceased whilst he/she was alive is more important, and that the rest is for my poor grieving heart. On this occasion, I am persuaded otherwise because these brief words may stimulate in others to see a glimpse what true "fatherhood" means.
Fatherhood to me is not biological. Bambot Peter Sama was biologically my uncle, but even Papa Elias Nwana would agree I have two true fathers: himself and the now late Bambot. When Papa Elias Nwana was studying in the USA in the late 1960s, and my late twin brother Ni Protus Sama Nwana was sick (and my mum Mama Odilia Nwana had to cope with two sets of twins under three years old), Ni Peter Sama (as he was then known) was her "rock" - in other words her "other husband". He was this to mama too all my life. He selflessly did forgo his own career for many many years for my twin and I in particular, but also my other siblings! He saw me in particular as his first son and that bond grew even closer with age. He taught me my values by example that textbooks do not tell you. He "hardened" me, e.g. with trekking from Bamenda to Fonta/Bambui etc. when raining to work the farms against frequent protestations from my late grandmother Big Mama Domatob. He disciplined me! He taught me -along with my Late Grandfather Pa Davidson Mfum Nwana - much of my family values, and mostly by observation on my part and inquisitorial questions which he always answered. I also have a hard determined streak in me to achieve my goals which I learnt from Bambot. His love for me and my biological siblings knew no bounds. So much so that Bambot would have been quite content not to have his own biological children. And even when he did, he told them that I was his first son and even their "dad" - elevating me from son to fatherhood too. That was one of his biggest tributes to me which I am returning poorly in this piece.
So you see, Bambot is one of those few that "formed" me! I only hope he was happy with what he formed - in fact, I know he was. His passing away leaves a big hole for me. I know we all have to go someday but this one hurts. I have lost a father who was part of me - and this is all this son of his can say. He exemplified fatherhood for me.
I just pray he is currently on his way to our Lord - because he deserves nothing less.

JONAS NUVAGA SAMA (SON)

25 GOLDEN STEPS

“My wife gave birth to a baby boy at 4.03 P.M.” Only a master finishes in style.
Life had been given to me, the same life which every baby cry from the maternity announces, but for the fact that its accompanying privilege and responsibility was placed for the fifth and last time in save hands.
From my birth, my father must have had high expectations of me, and to kick this off, he named me after a man he mirrored as “a clever man”. This seemed to be a bold first step, but as much as I remember, the path that followed was treaded ordinarily, but majestically.
I have tried walking down memory lane, to remember when I first knew you father. It has been a long walk, but I think I arrived with the help of those words that resonated in my sleep on the 20th of May…”Joe, Joe…” These have got to be the first words I heard from you when I first met you, as you read to me folklore from what I later knew was the “Act Supplementary Readers”. These stories came alongside this stanza of the LITTLE BY LITTLE poem;
“Little by little,” said a thoughtful boy,
“Moment by moment, I’ll well employ,
Learning a little every day,
And not spending all my time in play.
And still this rule in my mind shall dwell,
Whatever I do, I will do it well
Consciously or otherwise, your choice of these sweet folklore made me quite inquisitive, as I tried mitigating them with the realities around me. But before I could savor their sweetness however, I already remember joining my siblings in reciting the timetable, which came with lashes of the cane anytime we faked a cough to help us figure out the products of two numbers.
I remember the arithmetic books you left with exercises for us to complete and novels to read anytime you set out for work in Mbengwi. We did complete the exercises, but as Noela discovered and shared, we only read the summary of the novels found on the first pages, but explained vividly and enthusiastically, much to your delight upon your return. Yes, we got you on that!
As a kid, I heard from my peers that the last born of the family was treated specially, but I guess you and your wife understood this differently. The order which I met and which Noela happily handed over to me was that of total respect to every other, I was the very last. I was last to pick when food was served, and tasked to clean the dishes after meals. I could neither call any of my siblings by their first name nor retort, when tasked to carry out a chore. I could hardly even resort to crying, as crying and self-pity never won for anyone your compassion, or perhaps it did at first, but once it persisted, the words “Cry Strong Strong” then echoed from you, like a drop of alcohol on fresh wound.
The summer holidays came with initially exciting farm work, and to buy my machete in preparation was one of the first time I remember accompanying you on an outing. You taught me to file it, and handed it to me with the following words…”a man does not go to farm without his cutlass, neither does he sleep without it under his bed.” Some definitely know why the purchase of this machete remains fresh in my memory.
I remember being called to the vice principal’s office some a morning back in 2007, just to find you seated there. You had been disturbed by my choice to sit in for 10 subjects at the ordinary level instead of the 11 which by your assessment, I was very capable of taking and passing distinctively. Indeed, I had become lazy and complacent, dropping off physics and chemistry in favor of English Literature, on the grounds that “I didn’t see how these science subjects were going to help me to become a Banker”. You and the vice principal overturned that choice and looking back, I realize that was a pivotal point in my life, for I was set back on course to being a hardworking man and standing tall in the face of challenges.                                                                           In these times, you reminded me of one of those ideologies values which you upheld, that; “…the heights which great men and women reached and kept were not attained by sudden flights, but they, while their companions slept, kept on toiling throughout the night.”
I knew your movement was impaired because it was visibly so but was oblivious to the pains that accompanied it. How could I have noticed, when we walked over 10kms from the farm in that condition?                                                                                  Reading a letter which you addressed to the then Minister of National Education, seeking a transfer back to your hometown, having served over the national territory led me to tears. In it you stressed your desire to keep serving in such enclaved regions, but the pain in your leg was becoming unbearable, needing dedicated medical attention. Then I knew being around your family with whom you shared a strong mutual bond brought you healing, or at least, eased your pain because the hospital was hardly your destination. 
The memories we shared could empty a flute, but I will save that write-up for later.
When I look to the arch of your life, dwarfing your principles of hard work, simplicity, humility, self-dependence and transparency as spelled out by your wife, are those of sacrifice and family welfare.                    On core principles of family welfare, you were unyielding, famously suspending your education, to babysit your brother’s kids while he was away, merits of which will accrue to you in ways then unknown.                                                                               You couldn’t afford a beer after work, nor a car to drive you around, nor dinner with your wife in a fancy restaurant. You sacrificed these pleasures, so that your family will be protected by stone walls, and above all, your children will have the very best of gifts, that of a holistic education. These sacrifices were heroic, have found expression in the lives of your children and are no doubt your cherished legacy.                            
Nature inflicted cruelty on you, definitely as a matter of God’s Will, but rather than lament and harden your heart, you broadened your shoulders and even bore even the burdens of others. It was amazing to watch you sit up, just a week to your passing, albeit the excruciating pains, to advise your in-laws in your unique astute fashion.
Papa, while I will always fall short of your example, I will be a better man as I search for the strength and largeness of spirit that illuminates your soul.
God Bless your Memory Papa!

RONALD TATA (SON)

Dear Papa thank you for all the advises you gave me even when you were on the sick bed. I have learned so much from you. You were so caring, no discrimination. You made me know I had to work hard and to be transparent but slow and steady. Papa we will greatly miss you. May the Lord grant you a safe journey to paradise.

Aloysious on Behalf to the Ndofor Family

It is not long you buried Maa. You were our first son and brother. Your sudden death is a big loss to the Ndofor’s. Your were and are still the pillar and light of our family. We cannot forget your countless intervention with regards to peace and unity among us your junior ones. In your sick bed, you recounted how Pa Ndofor called you his first son and not his in-laws. Our golden and most senior brother is gone to have a rest from this sinful world. Bye Bye Bambot.

MAJORY ON BEHALF OF THE AWEMO FAMILY

A dad isn't defined as a man who makes a child but rather the man who extends his hands and time to help with the upbringing and display of love. This Papa is what you have been and showed us, The Awemos' and other extended families. People walk on this earth wondering how they will be remembered when they are gone but Papa, you can rest in The Lord because you did a great job raising us. We love you so much . Farewell till we meet again.

GIDEON NJINGTI NFOR (SON)

Dad, I am privileged, honored and lucky to have shared the special bond between father and son with you. You lived by example and taught me numerous lessons on what it takes to be a man. You were always there whenever i asked for advice and filled the space that can never be replaced. I know distance is the only thing that keeps us apart and I owe my success of today to you. Words alone cannot express my gratitude to you. It's with a heavy heart I say goodbye but dad, you will always remain in my heart. RIP

On that faithfull day at 8:am my phone rang and i was told Ni Peter has gone. You were a man of principle, of the people, action, social a mentor, and the list goes on. I will forever miss u because you thaught me all in live. Till we meet again

Fet Sama Aloysius

We called ourselves ‘wakarman’ because I knew you as a busy man who moved up and down doing work, hence the name ‘wakarman’. You were so loving and caring. Rest in peace.

Kefen Budji

The day you prayed for teachers, Papa, I was so proud to be one. You always took time to listen to me, to speak with me, and to advise me. Even in the pain you were experiencing, Papa, you cared enough to ask me about my own illness, which was nothing compared to yours. You made us laugh, and you made us think. I miss you Papa, but I am comforted because I believe you are with our merciful God. Keep praying for us as we pray for you, my father, my friend.

Mr. and Mrs. Cheyeh (Papy and Sendoh)

Tribute to a Great Man
Papa (Bambot) was how we called you not just for the sake of it but because of the great father you were. You taught by example, showed love for all who came by you and never demonstrated any sign of discrimination. You shared your life experiences with us and encouraged and reminded us to save always. You were so interested in what was going on in our lives and never hesitated to guide and advise us. We are surprised that you even knew our timetable.
Though on your sick bed you were so concerned about preparations towards our wedding and made it one of your prayer points. Now you are not there to see our first offspring. We will remember your jokes, stories, constant advice, and the laughter we shared. We thank God for your life. Rest in peace Papa, till we meet again to part no more.

C.D. Ben Fogam & Family

Dear Bah, Bambot Sama, my Father, Brother, and Friend, it is with deep sorrow that I carry on without your bodily presence. You were the one we always shared our joy, achievement, blessing, and sorrows with. You were there to guide us through our most perplexing moments with your great wisdom, advice, and loving care. Knowing and watching you go through the pain of ill-health was very traumatic for us all. Even after doing all we could for you to be fully rehabilitated, you still had to go forward to meet our Lord Almighty. Rest well in His bosom. Those beloved moments we had remain in our hearts always.

Your daughter Akongnui Constance from Bambili

Dear Papa you have created a vacuum in our lives that no one can understand. Papa you made me to enjoy marriage with no financial strength. You kept on telling me that I would one day be a minister. Oh Papa what about your simple nature and warm welcome: always with mighty laughter of encouragement? I know Daddy that you are sitting at the right hand of God Almighty. You shall forever remain in our hearts. Adieu Papa.

Nkwatoh Ferdinand, for the entire Nkwatoh Family

Your friend and brother Nkwatoh Patrick left us in January and you grieved seriously, then on your sick bed. You sent your wife and son to his burial. We all hoped for the best for you. God however had His final decision and you followed Patrick four months later. God’s decision!!! If both of you are together, continue your friendship and fraternity so that the two families you left behind will forever be one and pray for your intercession, for we know you are in His bosom.

Rev. Brothers - Njimafor

The message you have sent to the tomorrow you will not see is your children. A great father and mentor you have been to us all. We assure you to carry on with lessons learnt. Thank you Papa and rest in the Lord. We love you

SHESA 39

Daddy, you were a father not just to Sama Nwana Davidson, but a father to us as a class. The gap you have left in our worlds will never be filled but we find solace in the words of St. Augustine which say, ‘our hearts are restless until they rest in God.’We know you are resting. Watch over us Daddy. Farewell.

The Ntobans

We accept God’s decision and we say Daddy farewell. Prepare a place for us till we meet again. Adieu.

Nursery Staff

Daddy we have come to bid thee farewell. The only thing we can do now is to pray that God the Almighty should take thee into his kingdom. Goodbye and prepare rooms for us. Till we meet again, Goodbye.

Doh Oliver Sama

You are my God-given father. I will never forget the good times we shared together. You took me as your biological son and took up the responsibility to cater for my basic needs at all levels. You always advised and rebuked me when necessary. I am so hurt with the fact that you have toiled so hard to make me a better person, but did not reap what you sowed. You have nursed and nurtured me in all aspects of life. You were my parents: mother, father, teacher, mentor, just to name a few. You never gave up even when all seemed lost. Who can ever fill this gap you have left in my heart? In as much as my tears will never stop flowing, I am consoled by one thing: that you are resting in the bosom of the Lord. Now I know you are a bright star, shining from above. God loves you best. I miss you. Adieu, Adieu, Adieu.

Tribute Sisters (T.S.) Bamenda

Our darling T.S. husband, news of your passing on fell on tribute sisters like a thunderbolt. However we felt comforted by the fact that the Almighty God has healed the great pain you were going through. T.S. will miss you very much, but fun memories of your warm reception with broad smiles, at your doorstep, whenever we came for meetings in your cozy Njimafor residence, will stay forever. Thank you for your love, warmth, and gists you usually reserved for us. God gave T.S. a husband, and God has taken our husband. To God be the glory. Adieu dear husband. R.I.P.

Che Gustave N

Dear Father, we the classmates of J.C wish you a safe journey to the heavenly realm. You came and lived an accomplished life. Thank you and may the Lord grant you everlasting rest.

Niba Domatob Nahlela Rose

Bambot, you were a man of the people and I am very sure that you are also a man of God. Thank God for the numerous blessings that he showered on you as a husband, father, a teacher, an Inspector of Education and a friend. Yes, it was difficult but God has tenured the burden. I know that you are sitting at God’s right hand. ADIEU

Ndopi Aloysius

Bambot, thanks for your quick decision. You are now free and completely free from the pain of this sinful earth. Have everlasting rest, Bambot. Amen

Staff of GBHS Wumundeng Ashong, Batibo

Dear Daddy, we all had at least a chance of meeting you and truly, no one who met you went away without learning something new. Thank you immensely for your exemplary life and for the souls you touched here on earth. We know you are now resting with God and we applaud your strength during your last days. We pray for a peaceful repose of your gentle soul. Till we meet again to part no more adieu dear Daddy.

Bertha Titanji

My dear classmate and colleague, the Lord has relieved you of your earthly pains. My last visit to you was so heartwarming. I pray that the Lord Almighty should grant you eternal rest.

Tante Matilda

May the Lord Almighty grant you eternal rest.

Nwana D. Benjamin (Elder Brother)

Dear brother, you were kind to all, wisdom in taking decisions, and a father to all. You always stood by your word. R.I.P.

Mr. and Mrs. Mumbari (Sylvia Watye)

Papa thanks for all the advice and the fun/laughter we shared. Your foot prints will forever remain. Rest in Peace.

Ngang Peter & Family

Adieu Papa. You were such a loving companion and ever ready to advise. God grant you a place in his kingdom.

Ndikum Joseph

Go and rest in peace in the bosom of the Lord.

Nsah Florence

Bambot, what you have left behind as a legacy is humility and simplicity. God loves humble and simple people so you are now with your God rejoicing. Remember us, who are still on our pilgrim journey

Mr/Mrs Nsah Fred

Pa Sama, you were such a uniting factor, loving, embracing each one who came across you, and advising them. You are such a wonderful person. If someone could stop death, everyone would not have wanted you to leave. Rest in peace Papa

Phalon/Yvette

Daddy rest in peace. We would have wished for you to stay a little longer but God has a better plan for you. We will keep praying for you and may you enjoy eternal peace with Him.

NYONGLEMA NOELA SAMA (DAUGHTER)

Tears keep running down my cheeks as I write this tribute to you. You were such a loving, caring and disciplined father. You gave me such a solid foundation that not even the strongest wind can put down. I remember my first job in Mamfe even before my graduation from the Catholic University which you told me to rather continue with studies while you are still alive. I turned down the job and went back to school to get the masters which you’ve always wished for your children. While doing my masters, I still picked up a job as a psychosocial worker (counsellor) for HIV, North West which made you very proud and happy for me. I was so happy and kept on promising you all the best a daughter can offer for her dad. You called me every day at your bed side, telling me you will be well again and witness my wedding to Essomba. But I felt so bad because your condition was deteriorating day by day. You didn’t even know our diagnosis, yet you had the will of getting well again and looking after us all. Papa, I will never stop crying until the day we meet again. I promise to be that your ‘Mama Noe’ you have always wanted and to look after my brothers and sisters as you have always wanted me to do. PEACE, PERFECT PEACE PAPA.

MA MARY SAMA (WIFE)

My darling husband you were indeed a true friend from morning to night. You showed me real love from the day we got married until the hour you took your last breath despite your life long poor health. You inspired and taught me to join hands with you in bringing up our children to be God fearing and upright. We shared all our family matters together. You taught me the following principles: love, hard work, simplicity, humility, self-dependence and transparency. In fact, you had all the good qualities that anyone can think and wish for. You told me always to take thinks as they come and not as you wanted them to be. Taking care of us when sick, paying fees for our children and providing food for the family was your top priority. Sweetheart, now that you are gone, what am I going to do without you? I do not doubt where you are because I know you are resting in the arms of your loving Father. I am asking you to mother Mary and pray for us. We too shall continue to pray for you until we meet again to part no more. May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace.

JACY LANGSI (DAUGTHER)

It was at exactly 00:20a.m on that faithful 20th may when you screamed out in excruciating pains which made me rush immediately to your rescue and found you struggling. Your pulse was faint, feets became cold and clammy and your respiratory rate changed until you gave up at exactly 00:25 a.m. I cried and cried Papa, but was consoled for you gave me the opportunity to exercise nursing care on you which I did so happily for the past months. Papa, you were such a loving, caring, hardworking, sociable, straight forward and disciplined father. You always had concern for me and you will always say: “Weh…, make that exam finish make Jacy try rest.” Your diagnosis was unknown to you, for you had the positivity and will-power of getting well and moving on. You will always get up to take your medication as soon as the church bell rang at 5:30a.m. You will be greatly missed by your grandchildren (Dobgima, Kenna, Lenna and Kah- Genla), as you’ve always taught them how to count and make the sign of the cross in Bali, read, tell stories and so on. Thanks for your encouragement and support and greet Na Tema, Ni Protus and mami Helena Temfe till we meet again to part no more, its Good bye Papa.

NDOFOR NWANA DAVIDSON SAMA (SON)

You were so proud of me where ever and whenever you had the chance to make it known. You charmed me never to leave your side. My hopes for life were completely shattered when the doctors told me to my face that you had the most advanced stage of a prostate cancer and so you had barely few months with us. But your hope and strong will to live made me stronger and inspired me to be of service to humanity by starting SAMA’S CARE (S7) in your honour. Few hours to your eternal glory, you wanted me around and I am glad my presence comforted you somehow. Please pray for me never to stop caring for mum, my siblings and the rest of the family which you have left behind. You remain my hero and foundation. So Rest in perfect peace until we meet again to part no more.

DR. LANGSI RAYMOND (SON-IN-LAW)

You welcomed me into your family and gave me a precious gift without reservations. Your frequent advice and humble beginnings and the virtues of honesty will forever be missed. Your exit to glory left your grandkids stranded without a “mungaka” teacher. Careful nurturing of the gift you gave me will be the best way to say THANK YOU. Adieu Papa, till we meet again…

Bambot,

We did not really have the chance to get to know each other very well, but I thank God for the few and yet precious moments I was blessed to spend with you. You demonstrated a rare courage in sickness, you kept on smiling and cracking jokes. I would have loved to still have you around, especially that I made my intentions with your daughter “ Ma Noe” known to you. But the Almighty has decided to call thee to him. And nobody can question his divine decisions. All I can say to you is that I will fulfill my intentions.

Thank you Bambot for so generously opening the doors of your house to me. I know you have found peace where you are.

Our order teaches many beautiful lessons honouring womanhood and we realise our important duty to our mothers, but we, as young men, also need to recognise the other bond of Filial Love that shapes our growing years, the bond of a son with his father.
As I was thinking about writing a tribute to my Dad I thought -- How can I say a few words that do justice to all of the years of love and strength that Dad gave us? I hope that the real tribute to Dad will be the actions of my (our) lives -- that we are a testament to the love and lessons that he instilled in us all!

Before I tell a story about my Dad I wanted to relate to you a bit about the strength behind my Dad – my Mum (Ma May).  As a son I never realized the dedicated love that she had for my father – we always knew the love she had for us by all of the selfless things she did for us without ever fussing or even letting us know what she was doing – but we did Mum – and that love was always there! What I just realised these past months and weeks during my Dad’s illness was that same dedicated love for my father that I never saw – but knew was always there. To see my Mum care for my Dad these last months – from the gentle cleaning of his face, to the constant adjusting of his bed sheets (and sometimes layers of blankets), to the up and down and back and forth to the bathroom, was to see that love demonstrated in action.  That made me realize the quiet, selfless, caring loving way of affection that my Mum had for my Dad that I never really knew or appreciated – THANKS MUM!!

Bambot was a special dad in my eyes, a cliché, but he had unique qualities that set him apart. Dad, I remember these about your life here on earth;

I remember our trips to and from Nkambe then to Mbengwi. Very early rise to make the bus and you would ensure I had bread for breakfast just before we embark to the long journey. You taught me how to be independent at that very young age as we were away from mum.

I remember how you got us to recite the times table off head – that was a nightmare - because we knew ‘Dr Do Good’ was placed just next to you ready to be unleashed for any wrong call or hesitation which always meant using our fingers to add up. Mean, we thought at the time but now we say Thanks Dad.

I remember our trips to Na’Ka for farming mainly during the school holidays. Two hours by car at the time or many more hours walking back when bad roads meant no cars. How did you walk that distance? You taught us how to farm, plant, harvest and process the produce. You were an incredible hardworking dad and I assure you as you did well know how your children followed your example and will always do.

I remember the ‘rentrée scolaire’ shopping list and pocket money. How consistent you were throughout – makes me giggle now - but there was always that hope that you would deviate from your well established offer of ‘fried corn and groundnut’ and 2000FRS. With these always came “Don’t look at what others have”, “You are going to study not to eat” and “Live within your means”. Hard at the time but how great it is to live with these words that made the foundation of our upbringing.

I remember our phone calls, our chats, your advises, your stories and how you will always end them with “ Greet your brothers for me and stay well with them” Your strong desire for family unity showing through every moment in your words and actions. On one of our numerous phone calls you asked; “Ni Fon, how’s your social life?” That was only followed by laughter because only you could frame a question like that depicting something else. We made a good laughing team.

I remember the moment I got told of your diagnosis – I left work for the rest of the day and cried because the prognosis led to the inevitable. That was the hardest time because I wasn’t sure of seeing you again alive. You fought hard with anguish and desperate pains at times yet you still wore a smile and cracked jokes. Peter you were called – A Rock indeed you were.

I remember the last full month I spent with you in March of this year. What an incredible time we had dad. I learned a lot from you during this time as you shared family stories and explained the family tree. It was heartwarming to see the love that exist between you and your siblings most especially your eldest brother (Dr Elias Nwana) who spent hours every single day sat with you. You always told us how remarkable he is and since your diagnosis he’s been steadfast. What a great example to leave to us your children to emulate.

Then O’…… I remember the last phone call I tried having with you. Never have you been shy of words but on this night all you could utter were Pains….Pains…..Pains…..Ni Fon….that was the best you could offer and those were your last words to me……..

Because a day after those words……

I remember waking up on the 20th of May 2016 at 00:45 to the simple Whatsapp text that just read….”Papa is no more”

I will always remember your love, care, passion, faith, conviction because you did all you could for me and for your family. I know you were proud of us and I hope you knew how proud we were of you as a brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle and ‘Bambot’

You depart leaving a void in the family that we shall fill with wonderful memories of you. You depart setting yourself free from those pains that accompanied your last few months here on earth. You depart to take your place in the house of the Lord whom you served so well whilst on earth.

Thanks very much Papa – You will forever be loved and missed till we meet again.

May Your Soul Rest In Perfect Peace.

Little by little said a thoughtful Girl. ...Papa each time I think of you this poem comes to my mind ,it is sad that we had to lose you to cancer but I thank the Almighty God for your keeping you with us this long.Glad you got the opportunity to see me and my son.Rest in peace Papa.I know you,Mama Florence,and big Mami will be watching down on us.You will be forever missed.No one to call me meu meu meu.Till we meet again ...

O Bambot,

We got so used to having you around and took it for granted. I can’t believe that I will go home and not see you. That hurts much.

There’s so much I miss already. 
No one laughed like you. 
No one disciplined like you. 
No one walked like you. 
No one roasted and enjoyed his ‘ngwafut (corn)’ and ‘kuh (cocoyam)’ like you. 
No one loved like you. 
No one taught like you. 

You were a great educator. You were so popular and loved by kids in the neighborhood. We always knew you were on your way back from school with chants of kids in the neighborhood, “Pa Sama, your skin di go di cam”, “Pa Sama, your skin di score di matter” I have no idea what all that meant. But, that helped us get in good standing at home before you arrived. 

We enjoyed your disciplining style and provoked you into doing more of it because you had such an art about it. Your usual words “Don’t find trouble until trouble troubles you’ or ‘If a dog is lying down, don’t take stone and shoot it’ still resonate with me today. No one uttered those words like you. 

I still picture you one hot afternoon in frustration carrying a number of empty water bottles from the fridge that we had failed to refill and showing your big brother with your usual phrase “Ni, O ye ya boan le, bo rumni’ meaning ‘Ni, You see these my own children, they are very foolish’. We knew you meant no harm with those words. We actually loved hearing them from you all the time. No one said them like you. 

I still remember you handing out pocket money to a bunch of us each time we were going back to school. No one gave like you.

I remember the day you had us trek to Bali-Mbutu from Bamenda and back. I got foot sores from that trip but it was all worth the while because it was what you loved and wanted us to share that experience with you.

I wept when I received that whatsapp message “Bambot passed on”. It hurt even more reading that ‘the body’ was being taken to Akum. How you suddenly were being referred to only as ‘the body’. 

But, you had been in unbearable pain up until your death. We are consoled by the fact that the pain is no more.

I still hear that loud melodious laugh of yours each time I think of you. No one laughed like you.

Bambot, I just cannot believe you’ll not be there when I get home. But then again, I know you are in a much better home.

Ba ti mfonvi, Ba to yeni, Bambot. Good night.

Your loving daughter
Nagwa Fonjoe

Throughout my life, I have been known to befriend old folks - Grandad, Ba JK, etc. Sometimes, you find out that these are the freshest people when it comes to knowledge, just general thinking, and positive vibes. Bambot was definitely one of these standout individuals.

During my first trip to Cameroon, I spent alot of time staying in Njimafor. It didn't really feel like vacation at times when Grandmom was pressuring Nina, Sema, Buma, Bola, Bisona, and I to do chores. Bambot's house quickly became a place to hangout and avoid work lol. It was always fun to run to his place and have him greet you so whole-heartedly. Hearing his laugh was also really entertaining.

When I was a bit older, I took alot of interest in learning our family's history. I specifically remember spending a day in Njimafor with Bambot. He talked to me for hours telling me stories about his childhood and our ancestry. He went out of his way to even write some of the highlights of our dialouge on a paper that I still cherish till this day- almost 9-10 years later. 

In the past few years, I learned that he was getting sick. I heard about his India checkups. However, I didn't see any sign of sickness whenever I saw him. He was still so good-spirited, happy, and full of life. His laugh was still hilarious and he still greeted all who came to his house so well.

I'll forever love and admire my grandfather Bambot for all his knowledge and positivity. He was a really cool guy I can never forget because of the legacy and impact he has left behind. His kids are easily some of my favorite aunties/uncles because of their warmness in character. So, I'll definitely still hang out at his place for good laughs because that's the mood he has set there to stay.

Ni Peter Sama: Teacher, Tutor & Mentor
A Seasoned Educator Transitions
By Dr. Jerry Komia Domatob
Some folks dominantly stand out
At unique spots, where they reach out.
Lavishing kindness
They boldly champion divine goodness

Ni Peter Sama glittered, among those legends
Who in myriad arenas, shine as celestial agents.
An achiever of tenacity
He shuned vain duplicity

Devoted and dedicated teacher
His attitude inspired, as a star preacher
Renowned for generous sharing
Ni Sama excelled in giving

Respected man of his word
Ni Sama led folks across coarse ward
Forever dutiful and faithful
Always cheerful and prayerful

In times of tragedy
When people desired urgent remedy
Ni Sama’s unbounded compassion
Healed wounds with passion

Advocate of fairness
Who loved evenhandedness
Ni Sama’s affinity for justice
Strongly drowned injustice

Respected for hard work
Like firm laborers at winner’s fork
Ni Sama toiled, with restless ardor
As well as avid fervor

Amidst grave advertsity
Ni Sama epitomized reality
Battling like the brave
Who never crave

Farewell to a bosom brother
A remarkable husband, uncle and father
A frank, upright and seasoned educator
Ni Sama will forever power, as an ace facilitator
Bye! Bye ! Ni Peter Sama
Condolences
Special condolence to: Mrs. Sama and all Samas; his twin sister; Dr. Nwana and all Nwanas; the Tanujams, Fums as well as associates, families and friends at home and abroad. Let his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
Kah Ann Domatob
Kah Ann Domatob also extends special prayers to: Mrs. Sama, all the Samas, Dr. Nwana, the Nwanas, Tanujams and all friends and family wherever they reside. She wishes him the best as he transitions to that land of no return.


Dr. Jerry Komia Domatob is a Mass Communication professor in Alcorn State University, Lorman-Mississippi. An author, journalist, photographer, poet and researcher, he is currently working on two projects. His latest publications are: Communication, Culture and Human Rights as well as Positive Vibrations. Contact him at: Jdomatob@yahoo.com.

Bambot, I can't imagine life without you. We were just spoiled with your ever presence and love in all our lives; the children, grand children and the family as a whole. We assumed you will always be there. Still unfathomable that I will get home and not have you with us. Your last months were tough. As much as it hurts, I am happy the pain for you is no more. We remain here in your absence with a void that is incomprehensible. Please help us from up above to manage it. We will keep the family strong as you built and secured before your passing. You will be ever present in our lives and for me, I will forever remember to laugh. Bambot Njit mbonket bua nyikob