By: Joseph Momoh
In a concerning development, Paramount Chief George Gbanyei Njiabo III of the Nyawa Lenga Chiefdom in Bo District has acknowledged seizing government property, specifically a TVS motorbike and a laptop computer assigned to the Rural Water Services Sector at the Pujehun District Council. This situation has persisted for over two years, raising significant concerns regarding its impact on local governance.
The motorbike and laptop, essential for the effective operation of the sector, have reportedly been appropriated by the Paramount Chief for personal use, hindering the sector’s ability to fulfill its responsibilities. Local officials have made numerous attempts to reclaim the equipment, highlighting the urgent need for resolution.
Despite ongoing discussions and correspondence with the Council of Paramount Chiefs, the Senior District Officer, and provincial authorities, Chief Njiabo has steadfastly refused to return the items. He justifies his actions by claiming that the motorbike and laptop serve as compensation for financial support provided for the education of his nephew, Ing. Morie Bayoh Kobba, the rural water engineer.
However, Ing. Kobba has expressed his dismay at his uncle’s actions, calling them unfortunate and unjust. “I never expected my uncle to behave this way. He has sworn to God that the bike will not be returned to the government,” Kobba stated. He informed the press that the incident arose after he was denied communication with his mother, Satta Kobba, by the Paramount Chief and his alleged witchcraft committee. The committee accused his mother of being responsible for the town’s backwardness, alleging that she manipulated the community’s fortunes for her children’s benefit.
Chief Administrator of the Pujehun District Council, Sahr Emmanuel Yambasu, confirmed that he has received multiple complaints from Kobba regarding the situation. Yambasu noted that tensions escalated when the chief allegedly seized the items during a family visit to Sahn village. “The absence of the motorbike and laptop has created a vacuum in our development efforts,” Yambasu lamented, urging the Council of Paramount Chiefs and provincial administration to resolve the impasse swiftly.
In response, Paramount Chief George Gbanyei Njiabo III reiterated his position, stating he will not return the motorbike and laptop because he believes they compensate for his financial contributions to his nephew’s education. He confessed that various stakeholders, including the Senior District Officer and provincial administration, have engaged him on the matter, but he remains steadfast in his refusal to relinquish the items, insisting that his nephew has not acknowledged his sacrifices.
