Monrovia — The National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) ) has taken action against alleged corruption within its ranks, dismissing two senior officials and suspending several others, following an investigation into the unauthorized removal and illegal sale of eleven government-owned vehicles.
By Willie N. Tokpah, [email protected]
The dismissals, announced by NPHIL Director General, Dr. Dougbeh Christopher Nyan, affected George Watson, Special Assistant to the Deputy Director for Administration, and Pewee Quaqua, Director of Logistics.
Others affected by Dr. Nyan’s action include, Darlington Bah, Deputy Director for Logistics, has been indefinitely suspended, while three drivers, Alexander Jisay, Jerome Ponney, and Kennedy Gayflor, received three-month suspensions each, without pay.
The decision follows the findings of a seven-member investigative committee, comprising representatives from the Liberia National Police, the Internal Audit Agency, and NPHIL’s senior management team.
The investigation uncovered evidence of fraudulent activities, including the use of forged General Service Agency (GSA) documents to facilitate the illegal sale and personal appropriation of NPHIL vehicles.
In a press statement issued Tuesday, January 14, , Dr. Nyan reaffirmed his commitment to eradicating corruption within the institution.
“Corruption will have no place at the NPHIL under my watch, as this may undermine the progress we are making here. We will strive to maintain the integrity and standards of the NPHIL,” Dr. Nyan intoned.
The investigative committee has also recommended to President Joseph Boakai the dismissal of Dr. Adams K. Lincoln, Deputy Director General for Administration, for allegedly masterminding the scheme.
Dr. Lincoln is accused of creating fake GSA documents to claim an NPHIL vehicle for personal use and facilitating the unlawful removal and disposal of government assets.
The terminated employees have been referred to the Ministry of Justice for further legal action, including the restitution of the stolen government properties.
Dr. Nyan has called on the NPHIL Board of Directors and the Ministry of Justice, to support the leadership’s efforts to combat corruption and protect the integrity of the institution.
Meanwhile, Dr. Nyan has emphasized the need to align these actions with Liberia’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, which prioritizes accountability and transparency in governance.
