ABUJA, NIGERIA – The Community Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially registered a lawsuit filed by Emma Metieh Glassco, the suspended Director General of Liberia’s National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NAFAA).
By Selma Lomax [email protected]
The case, filed on March 24, 2025, in Abuja, Nigeria, challenges her suspension from the agency.
The court has notified the Republic of Liberia, requiring a defense submission within 30 days of receiving the application.
The court further warned that a judgment could be issued in the absence of the defendant if they fail to respond within the stipulated time.
Glassco is seeking $10 million in damages, claiming violations of her fundamental human rights, particularly her right to due process and a fair trial, in connection with her suspension. She asserts that the suspension process was unjust and has vowed to fight for her rights, expressing on her Facebook page, “This is a cause I am prepared for.”
Former Associate Justice Cllr. Kabineh M. Ja’neh is representing Glassco in the lawsuit. The Liberian government has not yet issued an official response to the legal action.
Glassco was suspended in February following allegations of financial and administrative inefficiencies within NAFAA. Minister of Information Jerolinmek Piah confirmed the suspension, stating it was based on recommendations from NAFAA’s Board, which accused Glassco of violating the institution’s governing laws.
Additional concerns about Glassco’s leadership style, including claims of being “insultive,” were raised by the Office of the Ombudsman, reportedly influencing the President’s decision to suspend her.
Minister Piah also indicated that Glassco is expected to cooperate with the ongoing investigation into the allegations against her.
