By Stephen G. Fellajuah
Lofa County, Liberia; September 10, 2025 – Tensions are rising in Lofa County as citizens prepare to stage a mass protest, demanding the immediate suspension of top officials at Lofa County University following their indictment by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC).
The indictment, made public on September 2, 2025, was drawn by the Tenth Judicial Circuit Court, based on findings from the LACC’s 2025 quarterly report. Among those formally charged are Dr. Isaac P. Podah, the current President of the university, and several senior administrators.
The LACC investigation uncovered alleged financial mismanagement involving over US$410,000 and more than 13.3 million Liberian Dollars (LRD). The charges filed include theft of property, economic sabotage, misuse of public funds, criminal conspiracy, abuse of office, and multiple violations of Liberia’s penal law, public financial management law, and the Code of Conduct for Public Officials.
Those indicted include Dr. Isaac P. Podah, President; Dr. Samuel K. Ngamai, former President; Vice President Catakaw; Administrative Assistant C. Crayton; Finance Officer Vamuyah Kanneh; and Board Co-Chair Annie M. Flomo.
The indictment details several questionable transactions, including 103,985 LRD for fuel with no supporting documentation, over 232,560 LRD, and 32,500 LRD spent without accountability.
USD 3,350 approved for a retreat that never took place, with a check issued to Board Co-Chair Flomo and no record of refund or event.
“These individuals colluded to defraud the university and violated public trust,” said an official close to the investigation. “Their actions directly undermine the integrity of the institution.”
The revelations have ignited widespread anger in Lofa County, particularly as students prepare to resume a new semester. One vocal group, Lofa Youth for Accountability and Good Governance, has called on the Board of Trustees and President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to immediately suspend all indicted officials, pending outcome of the investigation.
“For the fact that precedent has been set with other government officials, based on LACC reports, these individuals should be no exception,” a spokesperson for the group stated.
On-campus student groups, including the Student Unification Party (SUP) and Student Integration Movement (SIM) have reportedly echoed these demands, warning of potential unrest if no decisive action is taken.
This scandal has shaken the academic and moral foundation of the county’s premier institution, prompting demand for full accountability and swift justice.
The Tenth Judicial Circuit Court has commenced legal proceedings, with pre-trial hearings expected in coming weeks. The LACC will play a central role in presenting its findings as the case unfolds.
If convicted, the accused could face hefty fines, dismissal from public service, recovery of stolen assets, and possible imprisonment.
This case has drawn the attention of national anti-corruption watchdogs, civil society groups, and Liberia’s international partners, as it highlights ongoing challenges in the country’s educational and governance systems. Editing by Jonathan Browne
