By Fatima Kpaka
In an ongoing chieftaincy case, Michael Margai has taken Paramount Chief Jibao Russell of Lower Banta Chiefdom, Moyamba District, to court over allegations of corruption and embezzlement. The matter was heard on Thursday, April 10, 2015, before Justice Alhaji Momoh Jah Stevens at the Freetown High Court.
Margai, representing the late Nancy R. Johnny, accused Chief Russell of misappropriating funds intended for the development of the chiefdom. The case, filed under Section 13 of the Chieftaincy Act of 2009, also names the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Provincial Secretary for the Southern Province, the National Electoral Commission, and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice as respondents.
The petitioner’s lawyer, B.J. Reffle, sought an interim injunction to prevent Chief Russell from acting as Paramount Chief until the case is resolved. The affidavit presented included several exhibits, such as a 2010 petition challenging Chief Russell’s legitimacy and a 2011 High Court judgment that was later set aside due to procedural irregularities.
Reffle argued that the Anti-Corruption Commission had investigated the alleged embezzlement of funds meant for the chiefdom’s development. He emphasized the need for the case to be heard afresh, as directed by the Court of Appeals in December 2024.
However, Edward Sarkoh, representing the respondents, opposed the injunction, warning that it could lead to unrest in the chiefdom. He argued that Chief Russell has served as Paramount Chief since 2010 and that removing him now could destabilize the region. Sarkoh urged the court to allow the chief to continue his duties while the case proceeds.
After hearing arguments from both sides, the court adjourned the matter to May 9, 2025, for further deliberation.