CI-NEWS

El Hadj Lawan Bako: The multi-dimensional NW political face at Eid Mubarak.

2019-08-16

No: 441

El Hadj Lawan Bako: The multi-dimensional NW political face at Eid Mubarak.

By Etoh Anzah George in Bamenda.

Main stream Christians have seldom had a medium to feast and dine with their moslem brothers during their most cherished festive seasons.

Considered of utmost importance, the celebration of the Tabaski feast depicts a moment of sacrifice owing to a long chain of relations emanating from the loyalty, acceptance and finally provision of a ram for sacrifice in place of Isa. Muslim faithfuls hold that this celebration is therefore in commemoration of a time wherein they must emulate and respect the fundamental pillar of the religion which is that of a common sharing. It is a moment where in every true muslim’s door must remain open to friends, loved ones and other relations.

Celebrated by moslems in almost all quarters of the Bamenda town, it turned out to be an exceptional show at the residence of the UDP party Chairman, Elhadj Lawan Bako. A cream of Christians defied the rains and the buoyant nature of the Sunday to join the politician in celebration of the Tabaski feast.

The blend which comprised journalists, retired and non retired state workers, businessmen, youths and other party militants of diverse faiths and other religious beliefs found excitement and relief sharing with a man whom they have over time referred to as the simplest. Before now, many hold that though the feast remains open, just few Christians usually visit other homes and amongst the few, others hold only a minority actually benefit from the pregnancies of the high tables.

Asked why all were permitted, Bochong El Hadj Lawan Bako holds that they were entreated to remember the essence of the feast is celebration and such celebration is only worth its salt when many join the trail.

The liberal-minded muslim would not impose on his children to follow Islam. He says the adults reserve the prerogative to choose their form of worship.

“Charity begins at home and mindful of the nature of my home I therefore radiate such into the society,” Lawan Bako said.

He further insisted that the message and prayer of the day was that of peace and unity and non adherence to these fundamental norms will mean a boycott of these basic essentials.

Said to be grouped as a second-class fon and bestowed with a top-ranking title of *Bochong Akuu* and member of the Kwifor ni Ntu (a traditional class with absolute rights to discipline the fon and take other palace decision to the good of the fondom), Lawan Bako insisted nothing else could be too fulfilling than making sure all goes well. He could be seen playing the waiter’s role in his humble Ntarinkon abode.

On behalf of the entire press corps, Gwain Colbert saluted the legendary gentleman who braved the crisis as lone opposition figure to warm the Bamenda soil. He insisted the essence of Tabaski is felt only when miles are covered yearly to his residence without which just like the winds come and go so too will the day pass unrecognised.

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El Hadj Lawan Bako: The multi-dimensional NW political face at Eid Mubarak.