-LNP IG Justifies Cecilia Clark’s Transfer
By: Shallon S. Gonlor |
shallonsgonlor@gmail.com
NIMBA COUNTY, Liberia — The Liberia National Police (LNP) Inspector General has justified the recent relief and transfer of ex Deputy Police Commissioner, and Spokesperson DCP Cecilia G. Clark, noting that the LNP is not a “boy scout”, but a paramilitary force with rules and regulations.
Recently, the Liberia National Police (LNP), Deputy Police Commissioner, DCP Cecilia G. Clark resigned as police spokesperson, citing two years of alleged professional and administrative internal wrangling, including gender discrimination and an unjust transfer to the Protocol Department.
Speaking to the media in Sanniquellie, Nimba County, Coleman noted, “Every action and decision is guided by our set standards and procedures,” he stated, implying the transfer to Protocol Department was in line with police protocols.“
However, he praised DCP Cecilia Clark’s service,
calling her a “very fine officer” with significant contributions to the Liberia National Police (LNP). “She still remains a member of the LNP,” Coleman emphasized. Coleman said Clark’s resignation followed proper protocols. His visit to Nimba was for the dedication of a new residence for the county’s police commander.
On Friday, February 20, 2026, the County Administration of Nimba handed over a new police residence to the county’s police authority — the move marks the first time every in Liberia’s history for a county to construct police residence without government fundings. The Nimba County police residence aims to boost police morale and foster a closer relationship with the community, paved the way for effective community policing, safety and protection effectively.
The new building is set to provide comfortable living quarters for future police commanders assigned to Nimba County. This modern facility boasts three self-contained bedrooms, three porches, a sitting room, dining room, and kitchen. The project highlights the county administration’s efforts to upgrade accommodation and working conditions for senior security officials in the area.
For his part, Police Inspector General Gregory O.W. Coleman emphasized that security is a prerequisite for development, urging national government and county leaders to replicate Nimba’s approach in supporting police operations.
IG Coleman stated that beyond government backing, security agencies need support from local citizens and county leaders to remain proactive and effective in combating crimes.
“There can be no development without security,” IG Coleman said, calling for collaborative efforts to address security challenges across the country. He stressed that individual citizens and local leaders play a vital role in supporting police and other security sectors to ensure effective duty service.
Despite facing accommodation and logistics challenges, the police and other security sectors remain committed to protecting lives and properties, Police IG Gregory O.W. Coleman said. He emphasized that security presence is crucial to preventing crimes and maintaining peace and harmony in the nation.
IG Coleman expressed gratitude to the people of Nimba for constructing a residence for the police commander, acknowledging the county’s recognition of the police’s critical role.
“I have 10,000 other things to do, but I’m here to show gratitude on behalf of the Liberia National Police. Not many times in this country that we are recognized and appreciated for our contributions to safety and security,” he said.
IG Coleman said Nimba’s initiative goes beyond just dignifying the police, but demonstrates the county’s preparedness for development and security safety. He expressed gratitude to the Nimba County Administration and its people for alleviating the cost of living for police commanders and fostering a positive relationship with officers.
IG Coleman also appreciated the county’s efforts to build a modern Sokopa Joint Security Checkpoint, noting it is a clear indication that Nimba prioritizes professional security. “I’m calling on other counties and the national government to look at what Nimba has done – security must be prioritized to attract investors,” he said.
IG Coleman continued, “Madam Superintendent, we commit to improving security in Nimba, making it a comfortable and attractive place for investors. We’ll increase our presence and ensure those coming to Nimba feel safe and willing to invest.” He thanked the Nimba County Administration and encouraged other counties and the national government to follow Nimba’s example, supporting police efforts.
Nimba County Development Officer, Peter Karngbe, provided an overview of the project, stating that the building’s construction began two years ago under the current county administration, headed by Superintendent Kou Meapeh Gono. According to Karngbe, the police residence is one of 39—projects initiated in the county by Gono’s administration.
Karngbe explained that with Nimba’s growing population and Superintendent Gono’s vision for development, providing a residence for police commanders was prioritized to reduce housing expenses. The County Administration administration, Caucus, and Nine-man Council allocated a budget for the project, which was successfully completed.
“The County Legislative Caucus, and County Council approved the budget, and we allocated funds from the county’s account,” Karngbe said.
A contractor, identified as Jay the Pool, won the bid for the project, though the cost was not disclosed. The building is one of several projects approved by the Nimba County Administration in 2024.
Karngbe handed over the symbolic key to Superintendent Gono, emphasizing his commitment to completing the task assigned to him.
In her brief turnover statement, Nimba County Superintendent Kou Meapeh Gono reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to robust development in the county, aligning with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s priority.
Gono emphasized that supporting government initiatives is crucial, citing the police residence project in the county as an example.
“When security issues arise, they call the police. So, we are investing in security dignity as a way of giving back and showcasing appreciation for the men and women in security,” she said.
Gono recalled the county police commander’s previous inadequate living arrangements in a container, describing it as “wrong and dangerous” and highlighting the need for improvement.
“When we moved here, our police commander was staying in the container, the prefab. And I said, we can’t be telling ArcelorMittal to move people from in container, even our police commander living in container,” she said.
According to her, the county leadership swiftly stepped in to prioritize constructing a police residence to enhance the living conditions of police commanders, reflecting the sacrifices made by security personnel.
“Police commander will come and go, but it is important to use a portion of the police property to build a dignified structure to host the police commander where his or her family can come and be a part to spend some family time, and that he can be able to serve the Nimba people from a place of dignity,” Supt. Gono emphasized.
The Nimba Superintendent acknowledged the County Legislative Caucus and County Council for supporting the project, which aligns with President Boakai’s vision for infrastructure development and dignifying security personnel. Supt. Gono committed her administration to doing more for security personnel, including infrastructure, logistics, and mobility support.
She highlighted the completion of the Sokopa Joint Security Checkpoint, moving the Ganta checkpoint to Sokopa, and announced an induction ceremony will be held soon. She briefed Police Inspector General Gregory O.W. Coleman and others on the development.
The Nimba County Administration, led by Superintendent Kou Meapeh Gono, has achieved significant milestones in infrastructure development in three years period of her administration.
In just two months of 2026, two modern facilities have been dedicated, adding to previous ones from 2024-to-2025, showcasing Gono’s commitment to transforming Nimba County.
On January 23, 2026, Superintendent Gono officially opened the “Nimba Lodge” in Careysburg, Montserrado County. This state-of-the-art facility serves as an administrative hub for county officials and provides accommodation for Nimba’s sports teams, eliminating the need for rented guesthouses during events.
Additionally, on February 20, 2026, the Police Residence in Sanniquellie, Nimba County was dedicated, further highlighting the administration’s focus on improving security infrastructure. These facilities mark the first major projects initiated under Superintendent Gono’s leadership since Nimba County was founded in 1964.
Superintendent Gono’s vision for development has garnered recognition, with her peers endorsing her as Chairperson of the Superintendent Council of Liberia in 2025. Her efforts have also earned her the Golden Image Award, making her the first Superintendent in post-war Liberia to be named National Superintendent since 2024 to present.
Nimba County is rapidly becoming a hub for tourism and investment based on its rich history and infrastructure development. The county’s strategic focus on improving infrastructure, led by Superintendent Kou Meapeh Gono, is attracting tourists, investors, and visitors eager to explore its historical sites.
From the iconic Mount Nimba, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to its lush forests and scenic landscapes, Nimba offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The county’s efforts to upgrade its infrastructure, including the recent dedication of the Nimba Lodge and Police Residence, are enhancing the overall experience for visitors.
