GBARNGA, Bong County — The Liberia Land Authority (LLA) in Bong County has launched an investigation into competing ownership claims surrounding a parcel of land believed to be part of the historic farm property owned by former Liberian President Charles Ghankay Taylor along the Melekie-Gbarnga Highway.
By Selma Lomax, selma.lomax@frontpageafrkcaonline.com
The investigation, which is being spearheaded by Bong County Land Administrator Amelia Cassell Massaquoi, follows concerns regarding the ownership and sale of approximately 70 acres of land where dozens of residents have reportedly acquired plots and commenced construction activities.
The inquiry comes amid increasing reports that portions of the disputed property were sold to individuals who later began constructing homes and other structures without a clear resolution of ownership claims.
As questions mounted regarding the legal status of the land, authorities on Tuesday moved swiftly to halt all ongoing development activities in the affected area pending the outcome of a comprehensive verification exercise. More than 25 structures have been affected by the enforcement action, while construction materials found at several sites were confiscated as part of the operation.
According to Cassell-Massaquoi, the investigation seeks to determine whether the disputed acreage forms part of the extensive property historically associated with former President Taylor and whether individuals involved in the sale of the land possessed the legal authority to conduct such transactions.
The review, she said, will involve an examination of land deeds, surveys, ownership records, and other supporting documentation presented by all parties claiming interests in the property.
The disputed land has attracted considerable public attention due to its connection to Charles Taylor, whose influence in Bong County remains deeply embedded in Liberia’s history.
During the Liberian civil war, Gbarnga served as the headquarters of Taylor’s National Patriotic Front of Liberia (NPFL) and became the political and military center of the rebel movement. The farm property situated along the Melekie-Gbarnga Highway was widely recognized during that period and remains one of the most notable landmarks associated with Taylor’s years of influence in the county.
Taylor played a central role in Bong County throughout the Liberian civil war. Following the launch of his rebellion against the government of former President Samuel Doe in December 1989, Taylor established Gbarnga as the principal headquarters of the NPFL. From the city, he directed military operations, political affairs, and administrative activities across territories controlled by his movement. During much of the conflict, Gbarnga functioned as the de facto capital of NPFL-held areas and became the focal point of national and international attention.
Several property owners affected by the investigation have expressed frustration over the suspension of construction activities, arguing that they purchased their respective plots in good faith.
Some individuals stated that they were assured by sellers that any questions regarding ownership would be resolved with the rightful owners and that there would be no legal obstacles to development. The suspension, however, has left many residents uncertain about the future of investments they have already made in building projects.
Speaking during the investigation, Cassell-Massaquoi emphasized that the Liberia Land Authority is committed to ensuring that all land transactions are conducted lawfully and transparently. She explained that the ongoing review is intended to establish the facts surrounding ownership claims and protect the interests of all parties involved.
“We are not taking this action to victimise anyone or to deprive citizens of their property rights,” Cassell-Massaquoi stated. “Our responsibility is to ensure that every parcel of land is occupied and developed legally. Once concerns are raised regarding ownership and boundary issues, the law requires us to intervene and establish the facts before any further construction can continue. We want residents to understand that this process is intended to protect them from future disputes and potential losses.”
Cassell-Massaquoi further disclosed that land investigators and technical personnel would continue examining documents and conducting field assessments to determine the rightful ownership of the disputed property.
According to her, the government remains committed to ensuring transparency and fairness throughout the process, while preventing additional developments that could complicate the ongoing investigation.
“We have instructed all parties claiming ownership or possessing documentation relating to this property to present their records for verification,” she said. “No decision will be made based on assumptions or allegations. Every document will be carefully reviewed, boundaries will be assessed, and all stakeholders will be given an opportunity to be heard. Our goal is to reach a lawful and credible determination that will stand the test of scrutiny.”
The Bong County Land Administrator also cautioned residents against purchasing land without conducting proper due diligence, noting that disputes of this nature often arise when individuals rely solely on verbal assurances rather than verified legal documentation. She stressed that prospective land buyers should always consult relevant authorities before concluding transactions involving large parcels of property.
“This situation should serve as a lesson to everyone involved in land transactions,” Massaquoi added. “Citizens must make every effort to verify ownership records before purchasing land. We continue to encourage people to engage the appropriate authorities, request surveys where necessary, and ensure that all legal requirements are satisfied. Doing so can prevent disputes such as the one we are addressing today.”
Authorities have confirmed that the verification exercise will continue over the coming days, with additional inspections and assessments expected to be conducted around the disputed property. Until the investigation is concluded and ownership claims are fully reviewed, all construction activities within the affected area will remain suspended.
