By: Aminata Sesay
Tensions are rising in Parliament amid serious allegations that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General Amara Idara Bangura, is involved in the illegal seizure and demolition of land belonging to the Services Secondary School in Wilberforce, Freetown.
The claims were brought to light during a recent parliamentary session by Deputy Speaker Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, who accused the CDS of attempting to convert nearly 80% of the school’s land for private or commercial purposes.
“From six months ago, I reported this matter to the House,” Hon. Conteh said. “On Wednesday and Monday, two armed personnel were seen on the property, beginning demolition. This land belongs to the school, and what is happening is nothing short of aggression.”
He claimed that armed personnel, allegedly acting on the orders of the CDS, had begun demolishing school structures despite repeated complaints to national authorities.
Hon. Conteh expressed deep frustration, stating that the CDS is “insisting that nothing and nobody will stop him.” He further revealed that the school administration had contacted the National Security Advisor and the Office of National Security (ONS), but no decisive action has been taken to halt the alleged encroachment.
The Deputy Speaker cited a 1998 land survey, which produced two official survey plans one for the school and another for the city authorities. These documents, he said, clearly define the school’s boundaries and had even prompted the construction of a fence to protect the property.
“What the CDS is doing now is attempting to claim an accretion of land that rightfully belongs to the school, as if the school itself is part of the alley,” Hon. Conteh added. “He is essentially trying to take over school land to start a business venture.”
Members of Parliament were visibly disturbed by the revelations. Deputy Leader of the Opposition 1, Hon. Daniel Koroma, emphasized the urgency of the matter and called for a full investigation.
“By the end of this sitting, we must take this matter more seriously,” he urged.
Adding to the concern, Hon. Tamba Kellie advised the Speaker to seek legal counsel, affirming that “no one is above the law.”
The situation has triggered intensified calls for legal intervention and parliamentary oversight to stop the demolition and protect public school property. Hon. Koroma encouraged affected parties to pursue legal consultations and explore both civil and parliamentary channels for redress.
As the controversy unfolds, pressure is mounting on the government and security institutions to ensure accountability and safeguard educational infrastructure from unlawful appropriation.