Amazing Pursuit of Traditional Titles in the Nso Fondom of Cameroon in the 20th Century and Impact in the Society; The Case of the Sheey Title

Traditional titles existed before the European Powers colonised Africa in the late 19th century. Cameroon traditional societies were an epitome of every other African society that upheld these titles. In the Nso fondom, Traditional Authorities awarded titles because they realized that it was easy to administer the population with designated individuals charged with the duty of bringing together people to carry out development in the fondom. The acquisition of such titles thus became a sign of honour and prestige to those on whom they were conferred, even though the titles were only awarded to those who distinguished themselves in society either by their achievement or by belonging to a particular lineage. These titles ranged from Kibai, Shuufaay, Faay, Sheey, Yaa, Mfoome etc. During the post-colonial period, the Nso fondom witnessed a proliferation of title holders in the society particularly those of the Sheey class. The desire to uncover the driving force behind this increase prompted this research. Using information from oral and written sources and applying a qualitative and quantitative research methodology, we came up with the findings that the excitement of title award ran and has continued to run in the blood of many people who saw in it an opportunity not only to contribute to the traditional administration of the people and the society as a whole, but also to be noticed. The outcome of this was that title donors disregarded the status quo which required the title to be awarded pursuant to the initial traditional value fervently upheld by the ancestors of the Fondom. Therefore, in order to revive the traditional value of the title, title donors should adhere to the old tradition of award that laid emphasis on maturity and integrity as well as the readiness to act as custodians of the customs and traditions of the Fondom.