Othello Sarweh Nimely
MONROVIA In a fire burning statement issue recently, former Mayor of Monrovia, Jefferson Tamba Koijee, has strongly condemned the Liberia National Police (LNP) over what he describes as a dangerous pattern of brutality, abuse, and politicized policing under the leadership of Inspector General Gregory Coleman.
His critique follows a recent press release from the LNP regarding a July 22, 2025 incident on Newport Street, which involved the controversial arrest of Madam Zainab Bah. The former mayor characterized the LNP’s statement as “a calculated cover-up” and “an official smokescreen” intended to shield lawless behavior within the force.
“The police, whose statutory responsibility is to protect lives and properties, is now a hot seat of political operatives executing innocent Liberians under civilian watch,” Koijee declared.
He particularly condemned the violent handling of Madam Bah—who was reportedly stripped of her religious dignity and separated from her child—as not only a professional failure, but a moral disgrace. Officer Alice Tokpah, who was involved in the incident, was handed a suspension by the LNP, a move Koijee labeled “a slap on the wrist.”
Citing other past incidents, Koijee accused the LNP of a pattern of excessive force and extrajudicial killings. He referenced the deaths of 42-year-old Josephus Tukpeh in Caldwell, 17-year-old James Kandy in July 2024, and Manoba Mohammed in Brewerville, all allegedly at the hands of police officers. These cases, he argued, have seen little to no accountability, while “Gregory Coleman sits on TikTok to make videos.”
Koijee also pointed to a viral video showing Coleman publicly chastising a female officer, Hellen N. Cooper, during what appeared to be a disciplinary session. The former mayor criticized the encounter as “a disgraceful spectacle” that symbolized a toxic leadership culture within the police force.
“Let’s assume this was Mr. Coleman’s children’s mother who was treated this way on camera—would he have let this situation happen?” Koijee questioned.
He charged that the Inspector General has transformed the LNP from a national security institution into a tool of intimidation, claiming Coleman’s administration has led to; An increase in civilian beatings, torture, and killings;
A shift from public service to fear-driven operations; and A breakdown in internal discipline, replaced with public humiliation and showmanship.
Calling for urgent reform, Koijee demanded Coleman’s immediate dismissal.
“Liberia is not a stage for Coleman’s ego,” he said. “The people deserve a police force that protects—not persecutes.
Officers deserve leadership that respects—not ridicules. And victims like Zainab Bah and the family of Josephus Tukpeh deserve justice—not press statements filled with cold legalese and empty platitudes.”
As public concern grows over the conduct and direction of the LNP, Koijee’s statement adds to mounting pressure on national authorities to take action and restore public trust in the country’s security institutions.
Neither the LNP nor Inspector General Coleman has responded directly to Koijee’s statement at the time of publication.
Alphonso Toweh
Has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer and did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters
He holds first MA with honors in International Relations and a candidate for second master in International Peace studies and Conflict Resolution from the University of Liberia.
