NZebela Togba Pivi was a Guinean war chief and resistance fighter born in 1838 in the village of Nzebela in Forest Guinea, who distinguished himself through his fierce struggle against French colonial penetration for nearly 22 years. A talented warrior and formidable strategist, he led numerous battles against colonial troops, notably by preventing Samory Touré's advance and inflicting several defeats on French forces, including the capture and execution of Lieutenant Guicerf.
Despite his capture in 1908 and the cruel treatments endured at the hands of colonizers, NZebela Togba Pivi is today considered a national hero, a symbol of African resistance against foreign domination, who fought until his death at the age of 71, leaving behind a legend of bravery and determination.
Introduction
Born in 1838 in the small village of Nzebela in Forest Guinea, NZebela Togba Pivi embodies the spirit of resistance and bravery that marked the history of the struggle against French colonization in West Africa. Coming from a family of four children, he distinguished himself early on with his exceptional talents as a warrior and leader.
Early Years and Rise
From a young age, NZebela Togba stood out for his martial arts skills, particularly in knife and arrow fighting. His reputation as a talented fighter quickly grew in the Diani region of Macenta. However, his rising power and influence provoked jealousy among local chiefs, forcing him into exile.
Military Journey and Resistance
Compelled to leave his native village, NZebela Togba found refuge in Boussédou, and then in Kouankan, where he refined his military skills. Supported by his war chief Kaman and empowered by his training, he triumphantly returned to his village after a three-month siege, seizing power and becoming the undisputed leader of Nzebela.
Battles Against Colonial Invasion
His resistance against French colonial forces became legendary. In 1910, he inflicted a significant defeat on French troops from Kissidougou, Diafrodougou, Begla, and Yoala. A crucial moment of his resistance came in 1892 when he prevented Samory Touré's convoy from reaching Zappa, demonstrating his exceptional military strategy.
Victories and Bravery
NZebela Togba distinguished himself through remarkable victories. In 1896, during an invasion by the Kouakan, the Tomas, under his leadership, won a decisive battle at Nzelou. The pinnacle of his bravery was the capture and execution of colonial lieutenant Guicerf, a symbol of his determination to resist invasion.
Capture and Final Years
Despite his fierce resistance that lasted 22 years, NZebela Togba was finally captured by the French in the village of Gbaïpkala. The colonizers, seeking to break his spirit, subjected him to cruel treatments, leaving him exposed to the sun with a broken rib. However, it was ultimately illness that defeated him in October 1908, at the age of 71.
Legacy and Memory
Guinean national history remembers NZebela Togba Pivi as one of the greatest resisters to colonial penetration. His leadership, bravery, and determination embody the struggle of African peoples against foreign domination.
Upon his death, his younger brother Milikolo Foromou Pivi succeeded him, perpetuating the legacy of resistance and courage.
