It is recorded locally that: “Yaa Go Nimba, Yaa Cea,” (anything from Nimba is good), but with the look of things between and among officials of the county, trouble is said to be smelling.
In what seems to be war of words, the county Superintendent Kou Meapeh Gono, fired back at Senator Samuel Gongben Kogar, who recently called for an audit of the county financial dealings.
Gono challenged Sen. Kogar’s motives and questioned his authority in the matter.
In an official facebook post, Kogar wrote: “I call for your audit! I challenge it!! But you will NEVER, I meant NEVER be Susu Pa for Nimba money at any of the ensuing ‘County Sitting.”
This comment were met with applause from supporters, who gathered to hear her side of the unfolding controversy. The backdrop to this verbal clash lies in ongoing tensions between local government officials and the county legislative representatives.
Sen. Kogar has been vocal about what he perceives as a “lack of transparency in the management of the county finances.”
His call for an audit comes amid rising concerns among constituents regarding the allocation and use of funds, single-handedly by Supt. Gono.
Madam Gono, however, defended her administration’s record, saying: “All financial dealings have been conducted in accordance with the law. We have nothing to hide,” she insisted, noting: “Our financial records are open to scrutiny, but it is clear that this is more about political posturing than actual accountability.” Madam Gono comments suggest a deepening rift between her office and Sen. Kogar, who has positioned himself as a ‘watchdog’ for the people of Nimba.
Supporters of Kogar argue that an audit is essential to ensure that public funds are being used effectively and responsibly.
They claim that transparency is crucial for rebuilding trust within the community.
The exchange has reignited discussions about accountability and governance, particularly in the context of local leadership and the relationship between elected officials and appointed administrators.
With the county sitting approaching, both Gono and Kogar will likely face increasing pressure from their constituents to clarify their positions, and work collaboratively for the benefit of the county.