Sanniquellie, Nimba County – Tensions are said to be rising among joint security personnel in Nimba County after Superintendent Kou Meapea Gono allocated a housing unit exclusively to the police commander and allegedly bypassed other security agencies.
By D. Franklin Doloquee
The dispute ignited when Gono used County Social Development Funds (CSDF) from ArcelorMittal Liberia, the mining company operating in the county to build a house for Police Commander Larmie Mendin.
The nine-member of the County Social Development Funding (CSDF) Council, responsible for approving such allotments, says it was neither consulted nor informed about the project.
Council members expressed frustration, arguing the funds should have supported a shared housing facility for all joint security agencies. Instead, other commanders continue renting private homes in Sanniquellie.
Nimbaians have accused Supt. Gono of misusing the County Social Development Funding (CSDF).
Since 2006, Nimba County has received nearly US$3 million in these funds, yet residents report minimal impact on affected communities.
James Gaye, speaking on a Ganta Radio Station, publicly criticized Supt. Gono for diverting the money.
Supt. Gono, who has expressed interest in contesting the 2029 District Number 2 Representative Election in Nimba County, has not responded to phone calls or messages for comment.
When contacted, Supt. Kou refused to answer or respond to text messages regarding the allegation.
