Petition to Rt. Hon. Jacqui Smith, Home Secretary Re: Victor Hugo Yogane & family HO Ref: Y1078282 N1110764
In 2006 Victor, a successful business man was arrested and tortured in Cameroon simply for seeking a permit to sell a CD of political songs critical of the government. He fled the country leaving his daughter behind in the care of extended family members. His partner Madeleine had already fled from the threat of violence a year earlier whilst she was six weeks pregnant. Arriving in Britain, Victor sought Madeleine, and they were reunited by the Red Cross. Their two sons were born here and have never known life in the Cameroon. The family has begun a new life in Wincobank, where they attend church and have made many friends.
Cameroon has a brutal government, determined to stay in power. According to the US government country report 2007 the human rights record in Cameroon remained poor; security forces committed numerous unlawful killingsengaged in torture, beatings and other abuses, particularly of detainees and prisoners. Prison conditions were harsh and life threatening. Amnesty International reported excessive use of unwarranted lethal force by security forces and the killing of 100 civilians during protests in February 2008. Victors 10 year old daughter was sexually assaulted by security forces in April 2008.

An article about Victor appeared in a Cameroon newspaper during 2008 describing him as a dangerous ring-leader, wanted by the authorities. This may relate to Victor and Madeleine having been photographed at demonstrations at the Cameroonian embassy in London. Victor and Madeleine fear for their lives and for the safety of their children if deported to Cameroon, because of their opposition to the regime. If deported Victor and family will be in serious danger. Madeleine has medical problems. She and the children will be at risk. Their solicitor has submitted a fresh claim based on fresh evidence. We ask that their fresh claim be allowed and that Victor and family be granted the right to stay in the UK.