By: Precious Miracle Kargbo
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) of Sierra Leone has revealed serious allegations against the President of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), Thomas Daddy Brima, along with Acting Secretary General Benson Bawoh and Chief Finance Officer Ibrahim Bah. These officials are being investigated for allegedly embezzling approximately $720,000 that was intended for the development of football in the country.
During a press conference at Integrity House in Tower Hill, Freetown, Anti-Corruption Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala outlined the findings that led to the investigation. Reports indicate that the funds, which came from FIFA, the Confederation of African Football (CAF), and the Sierra Leonean government, were earmarked to improve the infrastructure and operations of football in one of the world’s poorest nations.
Kaifala stated that the investigation covers activities between 2021 and 2025, revealing that significant sums of money were allegedly diverted by the three officials.
Brima, who has led the SLFA since 2021, faces additional accusations of manipulating the tender process to benefit a company in which he is believed to have an ownership stake.
Brima has denied any wrongdoing, arguing that Article 28 of the SLFA’s statutes grants him the authority to make financial decisions. However, Kaifala countered this claim, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability.
On Thursday, the three officials were arrested but released the following day after posting bail set at $500,000. The release was reportedly timed to allow their participation in the SLFA’s congress on Saturday, where new executive members were to be elected.
Kaifala commented on the ongoing investigation, stating, “We are examining a highly controversial system of pre-financing and reimbursements that have escalated to unprecedented levels.” He added that the commission would pursue formal charges if evidence supports the claims against Brima, Bawoh, and Bah.
Despite the serious allegations, Brima remains determined to seek re-election and assured his supporters after his release that his administration remains focused on the growth of football in Sierra Leone. He urged the ACC to continue its inquiry and promised transparency once the investigations conclude.
As the situation unfolds, the ACC plans to inform FIFA and CAF about the ongoing investigation to ensure international oversight. The future of the SLFA now hangs in the balance as the public awaits further developments in this high-profile corruption case.