Fraud Allegations: ACC Clears Jacob Tenga Sessie, John Ellie, Philip Yomba, Starlyn Kemoh & Joseph Johnson

In a recent turn of events, the Deputy Director of the Budget Bureau, Jacob Tenga Sessie, along with four other colleagues, has been exonerated by the Anti-Corruption Commission following allegations of fraud at the Ministry of Finance.

The investigation revealed a different narrative, vindicating these professionals from the shadow that had cast doubt on their reputations.

Initially accused of orchestrating a scheme to divert 6.5 billion old Leones ($270,000) to a fictitious account in Kabala Community Bank, the group, including Jacob T. Sessie, John Ellie, Philip Yomba, Starlyn Kemoh, and Joseph Johnson, faced severe scrutiny.
The alleged payment was purportedly for work on the Kenema-Pendembu Road construction, stirring shockwaves throughout the country.

In a commendable display of transparency and commitment to upholding ethical standards, the Minister of Finance and the Financial Secretary have demonstrated their unwavering dedication to accountability. The decision to refer the allegations to the Anti-Corruption Commission reflects their commitment to ensuring a fair and thorough investigation, showcasing a high level of moral integrity. The ACC’s acknowledgment and appreciation for the Ministry of Finance’s cooperation underscore the collaborative efforts to unearth the truth and uphold justice. This principled approach not only strengthens public trust in the leadership but also sets a commendable precedent for ethical governance in Sierra Leone.
However, as the Anti-Corruption Commission diligently pursued the case, the truth emerged. It was uncovered that only two individuals, Ibrahim Musa Bangura from the Ministry of Finance and Emmanuel Smart from the Sierra Leone Roads Authority, were involved in the fraudulent activities. Both culprits repaid the full amount to the Anti-Corruption Commission and received a three-year ban from holding public office.

The exoneration of Jacob and his colleagues is not just a personal victory; it marks a transformative moment for the Ministry of Finance and the nation as a whole. Beyond the individuals involved, this case resonates as a call for accountability, leaving a lasting impact on the commitment to fairness and justice in Sierra Leone.

This incident serves as a reminder that allegations should be thoroughly investigated before reputations are tarnished. The professionals at the Ministry of Finance can now reclaim their dedicated and honourable positions, contributing positively to the betterment of their country.

Comment(s)

Disclaimer: Comments expressed here do not reflect the opinions of Sierraloaded or any employee thereof.

Keifala Koroma | 2024-02-26 11:13:03

I think the ACC Boss was very mindful of his statements he made on social media. He did say that SLRA colluded with some staff at the Ministry of Finance to defraud the state. It depends on what we mean by some. In any case, in the future, when investigations are ongoing, let' us don't be hysterical. ACC should be patient enough to complete the entire investigation before making a final pronouncement.
| 2024-02-23 20:40:19

Use wisdom from above in judging cases
| 2024-02-21 11:16:25

I’m happy justice is served this time around. To maintain the reputation of those innocent accountants.
| 2024-02-21 09:09:17

Fake ACC commissioner sef
| 2024-02-21 09:08:16

You can only fool yourself and your party members, Mr Corrupt ACC commissioner. Such a scheme with the quantum of money involved, it's not possible only two people involved in such fraudulent scheme. This is the most useless ACC commissioner I've seen for quite a very long time indeed. He is himself the most corrupt Sierra Leonean I've seen so far. Always ready to protect his slpp members of government after receiving his token from the looted funds
| 2024-02-21 08:11:28

In any investigation, nobody is considered guilty until proven so. It's common sense to understand that exoneration after investigation indicates the individual was not involved. Let's adopt a positive mindset and ask the right questions in the appropriate manner.
| 2024-02-21 04:55:22

ACC please make sure that you thoroughly do investigation before tarnishing people's reputations.
| 2024-02-20 22:13:18

Mr ACC kerala of Sierra Leone you cannot fool everyone at the same time anymore. After all the bogus statements you have been making all around when the issue of this stolen money pops up, why this automatic change of names of people involved and and why the total amount of money stolen has dropped from 8.6 billion to 6.5 billion? What is going on at or with the ACC of Sierra Leone. You displayed the money 8.6 billion as you said in your statement which is on social media in Sierra Leone and across the world but you have changed... God pass police oh...