By Engah Peter Parkers
Nokuri Samuel Nokpa has been officially installed as the new Divisional Officer D.O. of Tiko Sub-Division. The installation ceremony took place last August 13, at the Tiko ceremonial ground, chaired by Fako Senior Divisional Officer, SDO, Engelbert Viang Mekala.
During the event, the SDO expressed unwavering confidence in Nokuri’s ability to effectively lead the “strategic subdivision”. He emphasised that the population of Tiko has high hopes that their new D.O. will quickly emerge as a unifying figure, a symbol of correction, and a source of timely solutions to the daily challenges faced by residents.
( Middle), and out-gone Tiko D.O, Voh Buikame Kawa Armstrong
The new D.O.’s appointment came by presidential decree No: 2025/357 of 22 July, 2025, following his previous role as D.O. of Ebolowa II, where he is said to have developed a reputation for decisive leadership.
Viang Mekala outlined the myriad challenges and expectations tied to the D.O.’s new functions. He stressed the importance of fostering economic, social, and cultural activities within Tiko Sub-Division. Among the pressing issues that Nokuri will have to tackle are:
Illegal drug sale particularly in Mutengene and Tiko Town, (with new dealers said to be emerging from Douala), address challenges faced within local schools, combat the sale of illegal fuel, implement effective sanitation measures to curb diseases, promote peaceful resolutions to land conflicts, and
ensure a smooth conduct during the upcoming October election etc.
Tiko Sub-Division is particularly unique due to its strategic position as the gateway into the South West region and Fako Division when approaching from the Littoral Region. This geographical advantage presents opportunities for economic growth but also necessitates vigilant governance.
Nokuri Samuel Nokpa had previously made headlines during his tenure as D.O. of Ebolowa II, when he banned a rally aimed at installing the South Regional bureau of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM) party. He had cited unavailability of the event location and potential disturbances to public order as reasons for the decision, a move which sparked controversy.
The 56 years old administrator took over from Voh Buikame Kawa Armstrong, who served Tiko for six years and has been transferred to Njombe-Penja subdivision in Moungo Division of Littoral Region.
The event in Tiko was highly attended by all the D.Os of Fako division, some former D.Os of Tiko, other top administrators, Senators, MPs, Traditional Rulers and many others.