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Monrovia – Hundreds of Liberians, led by youth groups and elderly women are staging a peaceful protest in Monrovia to demand tougher action against the trafficking and abuse of illicit drugs across the country.

By Obediah Johnson

Clad in black and chanting slogans like “We Tired With Kush,” “Say No to Drugs,” and “No More Zombies,” the protesters are marching through the capital, highlighting the devastating toll drugs—especially Kush, co***ne, Italian White, and marijuana—are taking on families and communities.

The demonstration, which began this morning, is us organized by the “Say No to Drugs” campaign and drew support from civil society groups, student organizations, and youth networks. Protesters carried placards and banners calling for urgent and decisive action from the government.

Many of the demonstrators are parents and relatives of victims of drug addiction. Their message was clear: the government must act now to stem the growing drug crisis or risk further societal collapse.

“Our children are dying. We are mocked in our communities because our sons and daughters have turned into ‘zombies’ on the streets,” lamented one protester. “We need the government to take this fight seriously.”

Protesters are calling for accountability among public officials, including lawmakers and law enforcement officers, who they allege are complicit in protecting drug traffickers and undermining national efforts to combat the crisis.

The protest comes at a time when Liberia is grappling with a surge in the number of at-risk youth—often referred to as “zogos”—who live on the streets and struggle with severe drug addiction.

It also coincides with the presence of a delegation from the ECOWAS Parliament in Liberia. The delegation is in the country as part of a regional anti-drug awareness campaign aimed at addressing the escalating public health and security threat posed by drug abuse across West Africa.

Stay with FrontPage today for full coverage of today’s March against illicit drug.

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Monrovia – On the eve of a nationwide march against drug abuse and trafficking, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has announced sweeping new measures to combat Liberia’s growing drug crisis, declaring the government’s response will be “non-selective and relentless.”

By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, [email protected]

In an Executive Mansion release on Wednesday, Presidential Press Secretary Atty. Kula Bonah Nyei Fofana outlined President Boakai’s latest directive, aimed at strengthening the country’s anti-drug infrastructure despite ongoing fiscal constraints.

“The President has ordered that funding be prioritized for a comprehensive national response,” Fofana said. “This includes the introduction of an anti-drug curriculum in schools, random drug testing, increased operational and logistical support for the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), expanded rehabilitation services, advanced port and border surveillance technologies, and sustained public education and judicial support mechanisms.”

President Boakai was quoted as saying that “no status, no title, no uniform, and no connection will protect anyone involved in drugs.”

The President’s statement follows the receipt of the Progress Report of the Multisectoral Steering Committee on Drugs and Substance Abuse set up by the President.

President Joseph Boakai’s latest statement on Liberia’s drug crisis follows his receipt of a progress report from the Multisectoral Steering Committee on Drugs and Substance Abuse, which he established to lead the government’s response to the escalating crisis.

Like many of its neighbors in the sub-region, Liberia is grappling with a growing substance abuse epidemic. A 2023 study by the United Nations Population Fund found that one in five Liberian youth use narcotics — most commonly a dangerous synthetic drug known as “kush,” a chemical cocktail often containing fentanyl and methamphetamine.

Civil society groups reported that, as of 2023, more than 866 drug dens were operating in Monrovia alone, with the problem expanding rapidly into other parts of the country. The findings estimate that 20 percent of Liberian youth are now using illicit drugs, posing a severe threat to the nation’s health, safety, and development.

President Boakai, who made the fight against illicit drugs a central pillar of his 2023 campaign, established the multisectoral committee with representation from the Ministries of Health, Justice, Youth and Sports, Gender, and Finance. The government has earmarked US$3.5 million across the 2024 and 2025 budgets for youth-focused rehabilitation and prevention programs, including the flagship initiative “Kush Must Go.”

However, an investigative report by New Narratives/FrontPage Africa revealed that frontline service providers have seen little of the promised funding. The report quoted Dr. Moses Ziah II, Director of Mental Health at the Ministry of Health and Chair of the Technical Working Group on Drug Abuse, as saying only 163 people are currently receiving government-funded treatment — 37 as inpatients at a facility in Grand Bassa County, and 126 in outpatient care in Congo Town.

In apparent response to these alarming revelations, President Boakai unveiled a robust National Anti-Drug Action Plan, describing the drug crisis as “an attack on our future.” He reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to protecting Liberia’s youth and communities from the scourge of substance abuse.

“We cannot allow the spread of illicit drugs to turn our children into victims, our communities into ghettos, and our neighborhoods into shelters for criminal elements,” the President declared.

Boakai commended the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency for its ongoing efforts and extended special recognition to the Multisectoral Steering Committee for its coordination in developing a national response. He also praised civil society groups and community organizations for amplifying awareness and advocacy.

“I urge all Liberians to forge a concerted effort in strategizing concrete, actionable steps to complement the government’s fight,” he said.

Highlights of the National Anti-Drug Action Plan
To be implemented immediately in accordance with existing law, the plan includes seizure of properties linked to drug activities, including the prosecution of landlords and accomplices, performance mandates for LDEA regional commanders, with a six-month results deadline, establishment of a National Whistleblower Program with cash rewards and protection for informants, fast-tracking of drug cases through the courts, with mandatory sentencing and expansion of rehabilitation centers and reintegration programs for recovering users.

It also include the investment in border surveillance, including scanners, canine units, and other advanced security equipment, introduction of anti-drug curriculum in schools and random testing in high-risk areas, reinforcement of the National Drug Emergency, enabling raids and lockdowns where necessary, freezing of assets belonging to suspected traffickers in collaboration with financial institutions, and significant budget increases for drug enforcement, prevention education, and legal reforms

The plan, Boakai said, is designed to target every level of the drug chain — from traffickers and distributors to enablers and corrupt officials — and signals a new era in Liberia’s fight against drugs.

“Together, we will not just fight, we will win. Liberia will not lose another generation to drugs — not on my watch,” he said.

The President’s statement comes on the eve of a mass rally against the proliferation of the drug in Liberia. Set for Thursday, August 7, the National Day of March Against Drug Abuse and Trafficking is expected to bring together thousands of Liberians from all walks of life. Organizers describe the march as a “national cry for change, a call to action, and a symbol of hope” in the face of what they call an existential threat to the nation’s youth, peace, and development.

“We gather not just to raise awareness, but to reclaim our streets, restore our values, and rebuild the future of young people who have fallen victim to substance abuse,” a statement from the organizers read. “Drug abuse does not only affect individuals — it affects our economy, education, health, and peace.”

The group called on the Government of Liberia to strengthen enforcement, rehabilitation, and public education efforts, community leaders to actively engage in preventive actions and early interventions.

It also urged parents and guardians to speak up, support their children, and be informed and the youth to rise up, stay clean, and lead by example.

“Together, we can break the cycle. Together, we can build a drug-free Liberia.Together, we are The Hope Builders — igniting purpose, promoting discipline, and championing a new generation free from drugs.”

Envoy Points Finger, Urges Bilateral Action

Meanwhile, Liberia’s Ambassador to Nigeria and Permanent Representative to the ECOWAS Parliament, John Ballout, has stirred intense controversy following a direct and unapologetic accusation that Nigerians are responsible for the majority of illegal drugs entering Liberia.

Ballout made the remarks at ECOWAS Parliament high-powered delegation gathering in Liberia which aimed to raise awareness about the growing crisis of drug abuse and mental health challenges among young people in the region.

“A few years ago, Nigeria helped Liberia achieve peace through ceasefire and disarmament. We’ll always owe them that,” Ballout said. “But today, we have a handful of Nigerians who are trying to destroy the work Nigeria helped build. Most of the drugs being brought into Liberia—without apologies, without diplomacy—are brought in by Nigerians.”

Ballout emphasized that his remarks were not a condemnation of the Nigerian government or its people, but rather a call for joint action between the two countries to stop the flow of narcotics into Liberia.

“I’m going to Nigeria not only to express our gratitude but to reinforce cooperation on this shared threat,” he added.

Growing National Alarm

Liberians have become increasingly alarmed by the visible rise in drug-related crimes, addiction, and the proliferation of synthetic drugs like Kush and Tramadol, especially among the country’s youth. Communities, schools, and even local markets have reportedly become hubs for drug activity, fueling calls for stronger law enforcement, education, and rehabilitation efforts.

The August 7 march, backed by the Boakai administration, civil society, religious groups, and grassroots organizations, is seen as a major turning point in the country’s anti-drug campaign. Participants will march under the theme: “Say No to Drugs — Reclaim Liberia’s Future.”

Organizers say the march will begin from two locations — Invincible Park in Sinkor and the Freeport of Monrovia — with both groups converging at Capitol Hill, the seat of the Liberian government.

As the country prepares to take to the streets, one message echoes loud and clear from all corners of Liberian society: the time to act is now.

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Monrovia – An incident at Ecobank Liberia’s Head Office on 11th Street in Sinkor has sparked widespread speculation and confusion, after an alleged armed robbery attempt was thwarted on its premises on Wednesday. The suspect, now in police custody, is yet to be formally identified by the Liberia National Police (LNP), which has not commented publicly on the matter.

By Gerald C. Koinyeneh and Patience Jones

In an official statement issued Wednesday, Ecobank Managing Director Salamata Diallo confirmed that a man had entered the bank’s Private Banking Lounge and attempted to rob a teller.

“Ecobank Liberia Limited regrets to inform all customers and the public of an unfortunate incident that occurred at our Head Office Branch, precisely Private Banking Lounge, 11th Street Sinkor, on 6th August 2025, where an armed man tried robbing the Teller of the lounge,” said Diallo. “We are deeply concerned about this incident and are actively working with local law enforcement agencies to ensure a thorough and comprehensive investigation. The safety and security of our customers and staff remain our utmost priority. We therefore reassure all that we have taken immediate steps to enhance security at all our branches.”

She reassured the public that no money was stolen and said that immediate steps had been taken to enhance security at all bank branches. “We have taken immediate steps to strengthen security measures across all our branches. While we understand that such incidents may raise concerns, we want to reassure all our valued customers that our security systems remain robust, and their funds and personal information are fully protected.”

Ecobank further clarified that the incident has not affected its daily operations. All banking services continue to operate normally across branches and digital platforms.

The bank also expressed appreciation for the support and understanding of its customers and the general public during this period.

It called on customers seeking additional information or wishing to report concerns to contact the Marketing and Corporate Communications Unit at the Ecobank Corporate Branch on Ashmun Street in Monrovia.

Incident Details Remain Unclear

According to Varnie Karn, Ecobank’s Chief of Security, the man entered the bank posing as a customer. “He said he wanted to transact, then used pepper spray on the teller. The teller hit the alarm, and we called the LNP,” Karn explained. “We boggled him on the ground, handcuffed him, and turned him over to the police. He didn’t take anything, and no cameras were destroyed.”

The Liberia National Police has not given detail about the investigation. It has not released the suspect’s name or disclosed whether he will be charged with robbery, assault, or any criminal offense. But a police source, citing anonymity, said a single barrel gun with rounds was found with the man. The lack of official information has fueled public speculation and conflicting narratives.

Public Reaction Split

The incident has stirred mixed reactions among Liberians. Some are praising Ecobank’s security and the Liberia National Police for their swift response, while others are urging caution and demanding transparency from the police before drawing conclusions.

“If this man is indeed who social media claims he is, we need to hear his side of the story,” said one Monrovia resident outside the bank. “You can’t just arrest someone and not tell the public what’s going on.”

While no official identification has been provided, several individuals on social media claim the man arrested is Emery Johnson, a respected medical geneticist in Liberia.

“This guy is a nice and quiet guy,” wrote Levi Saah Magna Tiklo, a social media commentator. “There must be a misunderstanding. Mr. Johnson is one of Liberia’s best medical geneticists, a guest lecturer at A. M. Dogliotti School of Medicine and the University of Liberia Graduate School. I’m hoping he comes out of this safely.”

Emmanuel K. Kepah, Jr., claiming to be a former student of the suspect added: “There must be a mix-up somewhere! I’ve known him (Mr Johnson) to be a good man. He taught me Medical Genetics at the A.M Dogliotti School of Medicine as well. Praying for God’s intervention and an impartial investigation.”

Jacob Harmon called for a police investigation to ascertain the fact: “The LNP should investigate this further. It might be due to depression or some kind of psychological trauma. How will one man rob a bank in broad daylight in Liberia? Something must be wrong somewhere with his mindset.

Monbo Dredd agreed: “Please let’s hear exactly what led him on this path. I do not I do not condone his immoral decision on this matter but we have the right to know: what will make such an educated man to sparrow downhill to this godforsaken path?”

These comments have since gone viral, prompting fresh debate over whether the incident was a genuine crime or a misunderstanding involving someone with no criminal history.

As of Wednesday morning, the police had neither confirmed nor denied the identity of the suspect or released any formal statement on the nature of the charges.

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Naymote Partners for Democratic Development recently convened a county-level dialogue in Bensonville City, Montserrado County, to address the challenges and opportunities of implementing the Local Government Act (LGA) of 2018. The event, held under the theme “Strengthening Local Government in Advancing County Development Agendas Building Inclusive and Accountable Communities,” brought together over 75 stakeholders, including government officials, civil society leaders, and community representatives. The dialogue aimed to accelerate the decentralization of power from the national government to local administrations, a move intended to enhance democratic participation and promote development across Liberia.

Historically, Liberia’s governance structure has been highly centralized since its independence in 1847. This system has often been cited as a factor contributing to the country’s civil war, as it marginalized large segments of the population from political and developmental decision-making. In an effort to address this, the government enacted the LGA in 2018, which empowers counties to make critical decisions, establishes local administrative structures, and introduces revenue-sharing mechanisms.

However, seven years after its passage, the LGA’s implementation remains uneven and underfunded. A prime example is Montserrado County, which accounts for over 36% of Liberia’s population but receives only a fraction of the funding needed for development. The dialogue highlighted the stark disparity, noting the county receives only $186,000 in County Development Funds (CDF) and $77,000 in Social Development Funds (SDF).

The forum saw a diverse group of participants, including all 21 township commissioners of Montserrado County, city mayors, and representatives from various ministries. Prominent national figures, such as Speaker of the House of Representatives Richard N. Koon and Senator Abraham Darius Dillon, were also in attendance. Both leaders emphasized the need for sustained government commitment to funding and enforcing the LGA, especially in densely populated areas. They also called for greater citizen participation and oversight in local decision-making.

By Amos Harris, Please follow Jeff Da Blogger for more updates

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