Ministry of Local Government Suspends Samu Paramount Chief, Cites Security and Leadership Concerns
The Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs (MLGCA) has suspended Paramount Chief Alhaji Bai Shebora Yek II of Samu Chiefdom, Kambia District, citing persistent security concerns and allegations of misconduct in the administration of the chiefdom.
The suspension takes effect immediately and, according to a formal notification issued by the Ministry, was approved by President Julius Maada Bio in a memorandum dated 17th September 2026.
The Ministry said the action is being taken under Sections 19 and 21(1) of the Chieftaincy Act 2009, pending a Commission of Inquiry into the allegations.
The five allegations outlined in the suspension letter include:
1. Attempts to overturn a 1993-resolved land dispute involving Lusainia and N’gbolie villages
2. Unlawful and forceful imposition of sub-chiefs against the will of the people
3. Publicly molesting sub-chiefs in the presence of their people
4. Manipulation of the “Kanta Ceremony” for personal aggrandizement
5. Insubordination after the Minister and Resident Minister advised against proceeding with the ceremony on security grounds.
The Ministry said the disputes had contributed to tensions and insecurity within parts of the chiefdom, stressing that government’s intervention is intended to prevent further deterioration and protect lives and property.
Addressing officials and stakeholders, Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Amb. Tamba Lamina, said the government had engaged the chief and relevant authorities on several occasions in an effort to resolve the issues.
He said government had used district authorities, security structures and other stakeholders to monitor the situation and provide opportunities for dialogue. According to the Minister, however, some of the concerns persisted despite repeated engagements and advice.
Under the terms of the suspension, the Paramount Chief is required to cease all executive, judicial and ceremonial functions, refrain from interfering with the Commission of Inquiry and surrender government and chiefdom property, including the official vehicle, to the Provincial Secretary, North-West. The Ministry also advised him not to reside in the chiefdom during the suspension and inquiry proceedings.
A Commission of Inquiry will investigate the allegations and provide the suspended chief an opportunity to present his defence. In the interim, the Ministry said a Regent/Caretaker Chief will be appointed to ensure continuity of administration.
The meeting was attended by Amb Umaru B. Wurie, Resident Minister, North-West; Deputy Minister Alfred Moi Jamiru; Permanent Secretary Prince Alex Soriba; Provincial Secretary Augustine K. Fogbei; Director of Local Government Brima Newman Combey; and Kambia District Officer Charles K. Lamin.