British Cameroons Referendum of 1961: The Path to Independence
In the early 1960s, the British Cameroons faced a pivotal moment in its history. As a territory under international supervision, the region had to decide its political future through a democratic process. This culminated in a United Nations referendum held on February 11, 1961, which determined whether the territory would integrate with the neighboring Federation of Nigeria or the Republic of Cameroon.
This decision was not immediate. A previous plebiscite conducted in the Northern Cameroons in 1959 had resulted in a vote to postpone the final decision, setting the stage for the definitive 1961 vote.
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The Political Landscape and Constraints
The referendum offered two specific choices: joining the independent Federation of Nigeria or joining the independent Republic of Cameroon. Notably, the option of total, standalone independence was not included on the ballot.
This exclusion was supported by several key figures and groups, including Andrew Cohen, the UK representative to the UN Trusteeship Council (the body responsible for overseeing trust territories). Anti-colonial and African delegations also opposed full independence. Among the local leaders, E. M. L. Endeley advocated for independence via integration with Nigeria, while John Ngu Foncha supported joining Francophone Cameroon.
Regional Divide and Voting Results
The outcome of the referendum revealed a sharp divide between the Northern and Southern regions, largely reflecting the different religious and cultural demographics of the two areas.
Northern Cameroons
The Muslim-majority Northern Cameroons voted predominantly to join Nigeria. Approximately 59.97% of voters chose the Federation of Nigeria, while 40.03% opted for the Republic of Cameroon.
Southern Cameroons
Conversely, the Christian-majority Southern Cameroons showed a strong preference for the Republic of Cameroon, with 70.50% voting in favor of the union and 29.50% choosing Nigeria.
| Region | Federation of Nigeria | Republic of Cameroon |
|---|---|---|
| Northern Cameroons | 59.97% | 40.03% |
| Southern Cameroons | 29.50% | 70.50% |
The Aftermath and Integration
The results of the vote led to the partitioning of the territory. On June 1, the Northern Cameroons officially became Sardauna Province, integrating into the Northern Region of Nigeria.
The Southern Cameroons followed a different path, becoming West Cameroon on October 1. This new entity served as one of the two federated states within the Federal Republic of Cameroon.
Key Facts
- Referendum Date: February 11, 1961.
- Supervising Body: United Nations.
- Northern Outcome: Joined Nigeria as Sardauna Province (59.97% vote).
- Southern Outcome: Joined Cameroon as West Cameroon (70.50% vote).
- Excluded Option: Full standalone independence was not permitted on the ballot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was full independence not an option in the 1961 referendum?
Full independence was opposed by the UK representative to the UN Trusteeship Council, Andrew Cohen, as well as various African and anti-colonial delegations.
Who were the primary local leaders influencing the decision?
E. M. L. Endeley favored joining the Federation of Nigeria, while John Ngu Foncha favored joining the Republic of Cameroon.
What happened to the Northern Cameroons after the vote?
The Northern Cameroons became Sardauna Province, part of Nigeria's Northern Region, effective June 1.
What happened to the Southern Cameroons after the vote?
The Southern Cameroons became West Cameroon on October 1, acting as one of the two federated states of the Federal Republic of Cameroon.
Was there a vote before the 1961 referendum?
Yes, a plebiscite was held in the Northern Cameroons in 1959, but the voters decided to postpone the final decision until 1961.