By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu, Bo City
Popular Sierra Leonean rapper Alhaji Amadu Bah, widely known as LAJ, and his co-accused, Ibrahim Koroma, appeared in court on Tuesday, where both men formally apologized to Thomas Baio, the Mayor of Kenema.
In a dramatic moment during the proceedings, LAJ went down on his knees in a symbolic gesture of remorse, while the defense counsel requested that the court consider an amicable, out-of-court settlement between the parties.
However, presiding Magistrate Samuel James Brima firmly rejected the request, emphasizing that the matter before the court is criminal in nature and must be handled strictly in accordance with the law.
The magistrate stressed that criminal proceedings cannot be resolved solely on the basis of personal apologies or private agreements. He underlined the importance of following proper legal procedures to establish facts and ensure justice is served, rather than allowing public sentiment or personalities to influence the outcome.
Magistrate Brima also noted that the issue of bail had not yet been formally addressed by the court. Consequently, both accused remain in custody pending further hearings.
The case has been adjourned to Tuesday, April 14, 2026. Meanwhile, LAJ and Prezo Koroma have been remanded at the Bo Male Correctional Center as legal proceedings continue.
The case has attracted significant public attention due to the high-profile status of the individuals involved and its implications for the intersection of celebrity influence and the rule of law in Sierra Leone.