-In Margibi County
MONROVIA, Liberia — The Press Union of Liberia has condemned the arrest and detention of four journalists by members of the traditional Poro society, acting through the figure known as the “Country Devil,” in Margibi County. The union described the incident as a grave assault on press freedom and fundamental human rights.
The journalists — Elvis Gono of the Liberia Broadcasting System, Willie Jomah of Classic FM, Ackollie Nanakpallah of the online platform Margibi–Liberia, and freelance reporter Ramsey Sengbe, who is affiliated with the Daily Observer — were seized on Sunday, April 5, 2026, in the Konotah Community of Borlola Township. According to credible accounts, the journalists were covering an inspection of an ongoing road rehabilitation project led by Representative Clarence Gahr of Margibi County District No. 5. The project site sits near a traditional Poro shrine.
In a statement released Wednesday, the Press Union of Liberia, or PUL, said the forceful seizure of the journalists violates their right to freedom of movement and their right to gather and disseminate information without fear of intimidation or coercion. PUL President Julius Kanubah said the act was unacceptable under any circumstances.
“The forceful seizure of journalists by members of a traditional society under any circumstances is unacceptable,” Kanubah said. “This act constitutes a dangerous affront to press freedom and may be construed as a form of unlawful detention. Liberia’s democracy cannot thrive in an environment where journalists are subjected to such treatment while performing their professional duties.”
While acknowledging and respecting the cultural significance of the Poro society in Liberia, the union stressed that traditional practices must not override constitutional rights and national laws, particularly when they infringe on the freedoms of individuals who are not voluntary participants. The union also said reports suggesting the journalists could be forced into initiation into the Poro society were especially troubling, calling any such action a gross violation of personal liberty, consent, and professional independence.
The PUL has called on traditional authorities in the Konotah Community to release the journalists immediately and unconditionally. It also urged local government officials and security agencies to intervene promptly to ensure the journalists’ safety and freedom, and appealed to national stakeholders — including the Ministry of Local Government, the Ministry of Information, and human rights institutions — to uphold and protect press freedom in Liberia.
The union warned that the incident sets a dangerous precedent that could embolden similar actions against journalists and undermine the country’s democratic progress. It said it remains actively engaged with relevant authorities and stakeholders to secure the safe and timely release of the journalists and will continue to monitor the situation closely.
The Press Union of Liberia is the umbrella organization for journalists and media institutions in the country, dedicated to defending press freedom, promoting professional journalism, and protecting journalists’ rights.
