President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has reportedly taken control of the dispute surrounding the controversial iron ore tailings deal in Grand Bassa County, following sharp claims and counterclaims among county leaders.
The matter stemmed from an agreement reportedly signed with Steelfort Limited by several Grand Bassa officials, including County Administrative Officer James Duen and County Council Chairperson Nancy Bryant, and later approved by Senator Gbehzohngar Findley with the backing of about 90 percent of the Grand Bassa Legislative Caucus.
However, the deal soon became the center of controversy after Senate Pro-Tempore Nyonblee Karnga Lawrence publicly accused the signatories of engaging in what she described as a “BM Speed” fraudulent transaction involving the iron ore tailings.
According to her, the agreement was executed without proper authorization and full consent of the Grand Bassa Legislative Caucus.
She further alleged that Mr. Duen signed the document under the questionable title of “Acting Superintendent,” while Senator Findley and Nancy Bryant allegedly facilitated the deal outside established legal procedures.
“These actions were deceptive and illegal,” Senator Lawrence stated. “They acted without transparency, and they may face legal consequences.”
In response, Senator Findley strongly denied the allegations, branding the Pro-Temp as a liar and insisting that the deal with Steelfort Limited was legitimate and lawful.
The conflicting claims were later reported to President Boakai, prompting his intervention. Sources close to the Executive Mansion have indicated that the President is expected to establish a special committee to oversee the iron ore tailings process, effectively removing the responsibility from Grand Bassa officials in an effort to end the dispute over legitimacy.
Despite the President’s reported action, the actual commencement date of the tailings process remains uncertain, leaving thousands of young people in Grand Bassa County still waiting for the jobs they were promised. By: Wroinbee Elton Tiah/Ablee-Jay TV