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Executives of the Bo Artistes Union paid a courtesy visit to the Mayor of Kenema on April 13, 2026, to plead on behalf of entertainers Alhaji Amadu Bah, known as Boss LAJ, and Ibrahim Korama, also known as Prezo Koroma, following an incident on March 21, 2026, at the Bo Shopping Plaza.
The visit marks the latest effort to seek reconciliation in a case that has drawn significant public attention and tested the boundaries between artistic expression and respect for public office.
The controversy stems from a performance on March 21, 2026, at the Bo Shopping Plaza, during which LAJ allegedly referred to Kenema Mayor Thomas Karimu Baio as “a bastard”. The remarks were captured on video and circulated widely on social media.
Following the incident, LAJ and Prezo Koroma were charged with multiple counts under the Cyber Security and Crime Act, 2021, including cyberbullying and insulting conduct . The case is being heard at Magistrate Court No. 2 in Bo City before Magistrate Samuel James Brima.
LAJ was arrested at Freetown International Airport while reportedly en route to The Gambia and transferred to Bo under police escort. Both men have been remanded at the Bo Male Correctional Centre.
During a court appearance on April 8, 2026, LAJ knelt before Mayor Baio in the courtroom and pleaded for forgiveness, showing what witnesses described as deep remorse. His associate, Prezo Koroma, also offered an apology.
Despite the public display of contrition, Magistrate Brima declined to dismiss the case, stating: “The court has a responsibility to uphold law and order and ensure that proceedings are concluded properly. While the apology was noted, it does not override the judicial process”.
On April 9, 2026, LAJ issued a formal public apology, writing of “deep humility and sincere regret” over his emotional outburst. He extended his apology to the Mayor of Kenema, the people of Kenema, and all Sierra Leoneans, accepting full responsibility for his conduct .
On April 11, 2026, key stakeholders in Kenema convened at Mayor Baio’s private residence for a high-level meeting chaired by DJ Snow, CEO of Karima Investment, to discuss reconciliation. The meeting revealed divided opinions, with some advocating for forgiveness while others urged caution.
Mayor Baio has stated clearly that he is not seeking financial compensation but genuine accountability. His conditions for any potential out-of-court resolution include a signed undertaking from LAJ, a comprehensive public apology through video and local radio broadcasts targeting audiences in Kenema, and the possibility of a performance ban in the Eastern Region .
The mayors of Bo and Koidu have also imposed bans on LAJ’s activities in their municipalities. Koidu Mayor Komba Mathew Sam announced an immediate ban on all public performances involving LAJ within Koidu New Sembehun City, stating the ban would remain until the artist formally apologizes or the issue is resolved.
The case has sparked wider debate in Sierra Leone’s entertainment industry. Entertainment Ambassador Kao Denero issued a warning to artists at an April 4 gala, urging them to watch their words and actions. In response, R&B artist Famous pushed back, arguing that leaders should not “kick a man when he’s already on his knees apologising”.
The next court hearing is scheduled for April 14, 2026. Mayor Baio has cautioned that LAJ’s release is not guaranteed, emphasizing that the decision rests with the court . The Bo Artistes Union’s visit on April 13 represents a continued effort to seek an amicable resolution before the next court date.
