By: James Kamara-Manneh
The Executive Director of Campaign for Human Rights Development International (CHRDI), Abdul Fatorma, expressed dismay in an exclusive interview over recent instances of tribal statements from Sierra Leoneans both within and outside the country. Accusations have been circulating, suggesting that individuals such as ‘Adebayor’ and Gibril Bangura are exacerbating regional tensions, particularly between Southerners and the North West region.
There are allegations that Adebayor, purportedly linked to the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) party, has been inciting demonstrations against the governing Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) for the past five years. Adebayor is accused of using inflammatory language and diatribes against responsible Sierra Leoneans and, specifically, the Mende ethnic group. Meanwhile, Gibril Bangura, currently residing outside the country, posted an audio on social media calling on Northerners “to be ready” and accusing President Bio of promoting tribal division.
Against this backdrop, Abdul Fatorma emphasized that individuals or groups should not combat impunity or hold people accountable based on tribal or regional lines. He highlighted a pervasive issue where politicians believe their ill-gotten wealth should be protected by their tribal affiliations. Fatorma stressed that accountability should be to the people, and no one is above the law. Using regional or tribal lines to shield oneself from accountability should not be tolerated.
Expressing strong disapproval of these developments, Fatorma urged tribal leaders to speak out against such hate speech, emphasizing that it could undermine the peace of the nation. Tribalism, deeply rooted in