February 7, 2025! Freetown, Sierra Leone – A high-stakes legal battle is set to unfold in the High Court of Sierra Leone as prominent businessman Kobi Walker initiates a defamation lawsuit against Mohamed Kamarainba Mansaray, a controversial political figure. Walker is accusing Mansaray of spreading false, malicious, and highly damaging allegations that have tarnished his reputation, threatened his business interests, and subjected him to public scrutiny.
The lawsuit follows a series of audio recordings and social media posts made by Mansaray on February 2 and 3, 2025, in which he alleged that Walker was involved in a drug trafficking syndicate and had embezzled funds related to the acquisition of Sierra Rutile Limited, one of the country’s largest mining operations.
One of Mansaray’s most serious and scandalous claims accuses Walker of harboring a known cocaine dealer at his under-construction luxury resort near York Village, further insinuating his involvement in illicit activities. These allegations, now circulating widely across social media, have not only damaged Walker’s personal and professional reputation but have also raised concerns about the power of unverified information to influence public perception.
In response to these damaging statements, Walker has taken decisive legal action, seeking redress through the courts to clear his name. The High Court of Sierra Leone has issued a writ of summons, ordering Mansaray to appear before the court within 14 days to respond to the claims.
Legal experts warn that should Mansaray fail to comply with the summons, the court may proceed in his absence, allowing Walker’s legal team to secure a default judgment, which could have serious financial and legal consequences for Mansaray.
Walker, the former CEO of NP Fuel Station, is seeking a broad range of legal remedies to not only restore his reputation but also to deter the reckless spread of defamatory statements on digital platforms. His demands include:
1. A formal judicial declaration that Mansaray’s statements constitute libel, ensuring an official legal record that the allegations were false and damaging.
2. A full retraction and a public apology, to be published in at least three of the country’s leading national newspapers.
3. Substantial financial damages as compensation for the emotional distress, reputational damage, and business losses he has suffered.
4. A perpetual injunction preventing Mansaray from making any further defamatory statements against him, ensuring that such reckless accusations are not repeated.
5. A mandatory court order compelling Mansaray to delete the defamatory posts from all social media platforms to prevent their continued circulation.
Defamation in the Digital Age: A Case of National Importance
This case is shaping up to be one of the most significant libel cases in recent Sierra Leonean history, highlighting the growing dangers of misinformation and defamation in the digital age. The rapid spread of unverified and inflammatory claims on social media has created a new frontier for legal disputes, where individuals can see their reputations destroyed overnight by false narratives.
Legal analysts note that the outcome of this case could set a powerful precedent for how defamation lawsuits are handled in Sierra Leone, particularly concerning the accountability of public figures who use social media to attack others. If Walker succeeds, it may serve as a warning to others who believe they can spread false allegations without consequences.
“The ease with which misinformation can spread today is alarming,” remarked a senior legal expert. “This case will test the strength of our defamation laws and determine whether the courts are willing to hold individuals accountable for damaging reputations without evidence.”
What’s Next?
A preliminary hearing date has been scheduled, where both parties will have the opportunity to present their arguments before the court. Given the high-profile nature of the case, it is expected to attract significant public interest, with many eager to see how the judiciary will handle a dispute that raises important questions about free speech, accountability, and the role of social media in modern defamation cases.
For now, all eyes remain on Mohamed Kamarainba Mansaray. Will he appear in court to defend his statements, or will he risk serious legal consequences by ignoring the summons?
The Independent Newspaper will continue to provide comprehensive coverage as the case develops.
