Monrovia- Opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) Secretary General, Jefferson Tamba Koijee, has criticized the Inspector General of Police Gregory O.W. Coleman over his recent visit to the Sorlumba Border, describing the tour as irrelevant and a misuse of public funds.
By J.H. Webster Clayeh [email protected]
Over the weekend, IG Coleman visited the Sorlumba Border following heightened tensions after Guinean soldiers reportedly crossed into Liberian territory and hoisted their national flag.
Mr. Koijee argued that the Inspector General’s presence was unnecessary, stating that such matters fall under the responsibilities of immigration authorities and the military.
Speaking during a town hall meeting in the Sorlumba Clan, IG Coleman defended his visit, saying it was intended to reassure citizens about the government’s commitment to national security and territorial integrity.
“If it a crime, let me commit it but we will enviously protect the peace with everything we got because we know where we came from, look at how far we have come, nobody will take it from us. So for those who want to see chao it will not happen, no gun will fire here, this place will be safe and people will go about their normal business,” Police IG Coleman stated.
He further emphasized coordination among security forces: “We are not fighting war. So even though the army is here but you will not see the army but the army is here to protect you as well. The police, the immigration, we are at the full front at this time to deal with this particular issue.”
Despite the reassurance, Mr. Koijee insisted that residents remain fearful and that Coleman’s presence could worsen the situation.
“Gregory Coleman’s border tour today was nothing but expensive showmanship at a time when our people are traumatized and living in fear,” CDC Secretary General said.
He also questioned government spending and response to the crisis: “The regime has reportedly blown through over US$1.7 million on national security operations, yet there is still no concrete redress for the land dispute, no justice for affected communities, and no real accountability for those fueling the crisis.”
Mr. Koijee further accused Minister of Local Government Francis Sakila Nyumalin of involvement in illicit mining activities in the Mokena River area.
“Powerful figures like Francis Sakila Nyumalin and others are widely accused of running and benefiting from cross-border illicit mining in full view of this Boakai–Koung regime, while the government hides behind the empty language of diplomacy,” Mr. Koijee asserted.
Mr. Koijee raised concerns about the welfare of Liberian soldiers and the role of the police: “Our AFL soldiers are earning around US$264 a month before tax, less than what some lawmakers’ yard boys receive, yet the Liberia National Police is being turned into a politicized, state-sanctioned militia used for optics and intimidation.”
He ended with a strong condemnation of the government: “This is not leadership; it is gross incompetence, dangerous greed, and a shameful betrayal of the men and women risking their lives for Liberia.”
