The Cameroon Volleyball Federation (FECAVOLLEY) has issued a strong denial in response to shocking allegations involving sexual misconduct within its ranks.
The federation is facing accusations that several young players, aged between 16 and 18, were impregnated by national team coaches, prompting a severe backlash and calls for an in-depth investigation.
In a statement, FECAVOLLEY addressed these claims head-on, distancing itself from the individuals involved and asserting its commitment to the ethical management and development of volleyball in Cameroon.
“The Cameroon Volleyball Federation, under the leadership of Mr. Julien Serge Abouem, wishes to inform both national and international public opinion that FECAVOLLEY is not involved in the tumult of moral affairs prevalent in the media, especially on social networks,” the statement read.
The scandal came to light following revelations made by a professional player in an open letter, where she condemned the pervasive “droit de cuissage” (right of first night) and “organized debauchery” allegedly endorsed by the federation’s president.
The player’s accusations extended to the behavior of certain coaches whom she claimed were engaged in the harassment and sexual abuse of young female athletes.
The situation worsened when sports journalist Richard Naha reported that five underage volleyball players were currently pregnant as a result of relations with federation officials.
However, FECAVOLLEY’s statement vehemently denied any involvement with the accused individuals, referring to them as “impostors who falsely claim to be associated with a so-called Cameroonian Federation of Volleyball
The federation emphasized its ongoing commitment to promoting volleyball and upholding high standards of conduct.
“These individuals will not find a platform for expression at FECAVOLLEY, which continues to pursue its development plan harmoniously,” the statement added.
To further assure the public and its stakeholders, FECAVOLLEY called upon parents, supporters, patrons, sponsors, and public authorities to continue placing their trust in the federation.
“FECAVOLLEY invites… the necessary support for the implementation of public policies in the field of sports and physical education,” it noted.
This scandal is the latest in a series of issues that have plagued sports federations across Africa, where allegations of misconduct and abuse have frequently surfaced.
It underscores the urgent need for effective protection mechanisms for athletes, particularly minors, to safeguard against exploitation and abuse.
The international sports community is closely watching the developments within the Cameroon Volleyball Federation.
