A legal tussle has erupted in Yaoundé after a prominent Cameroonian official filed a formal response to allegations raised in a recent press statement. The dispute centers on claims made regarding interactions between two high-profile figures in 2020.
Official Denies Claims, Invokes Legal Action
M. Sani Mouhamadou, responding through his legal representative Me Mélissa Nyoth, has categorically rejected assertions that he ever cited the Direction Générale de la Recherche Extérieure (DGRE) as a state institution that sought his services or network in 2020. The denial comes in the wake of a public statement issued by the legal team of M. Léopold Maxime Eko Eko, who accused Mouhamadou of fabricating claims about their professional relationship.
In the rebuttal, Me Nyoth emphasized that Mouhamadou’s original press release on August 5 was intended solely to clarify misinformation circulating in videos released on July 24 and 25. She stressed that her client never mentioned Eko Eko’s name in that communication, suggesting the allegations stem from a misunderstanding.
Timeline of Events and Key Disputes
The legal confrontation hinges on a series of claims and counterclaims:
- Initial Contact Alleged: Eko Eko’s legal team asserts that Mouhamadou approached their client in 2020, seeking an audience to propose his services. However, they contend that Mouhamadou failed to substantiate his qualifications or official credentials, leading the DGRE to terminate all further discussions.
- Contradictory Narrative: Mouhamadou’s retort challenges this account, stating that it was Eko Eko who first reached out to him on February 1, 2020, via private messaging. The message reportedly read, « …I urgently need your help … », directly contradicting the narrative presented by Eko Eko’s legal representatives.
- Professional Credentials Highlighted: Mouhamadou underscores his certified expertise, validated by the Institut des Hautes Études de Défense Nationale, as evidence of his professional standing. He argues that the original press release was a defensive measure to protect his reputation amid baseless accusations.
Following the release of Eko Eko’s statement, Mouhamadou claims he attempted an informal resolution to correct the record, but no action was taken. Now, he has issued a 48-hour ultimatum for the retraction of the disputed communiqué, warning that failure to comply will result in legal action for defamation.
Legal Implications and Next Steps
Me Nyoth’s response underscores the seriousness of the allegations, framing them as defamatory if left unaddressed. The legal document, dated August 10, 2026, demands immediate correction to avert further legal escalation. While Mouhamadou has expressed respect for Eko Eko, he insists on defending his honor and professional integrity.
The unfolding situation highlights the delicate balance between public statements and legal accountability, particularly in high-stakes disputes involving public figures.