The University of Liberia has revoked the degree of Dorr Cooper, the Inspector General at the Ministry of Commerce, after an internal investigation found he fraudulently obtained his academic credentials. The decision has triggered demands from civil society groups and academic figures urging President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to remove Cooper from his government position.
The university’s investigation concluded that Cooper used the identity of a deceased student to acquire a degree in Public Administration. According to findings from the investigative committee, Cooper allegedly paid $10,000 to university personnel to facilitate the fraudulent process. These revelations emerged following concerns raised ahead of the university’s September 10, 2024, graduation ceremony.
Cooper has rejected the university’s decision, accusing its administration of mishandling the process and failing to follow proper procedures. Speaking to a local media outlet, Cooper expressed disappointment, stating that he learned about the revocation of his degree through social media rather than from university officials.
“I was never informed by the University of Liberia. I found out on social media like everyone else,” Cooper said, criticizing the institution’s approach. He also claimed he was not given an opportunity to explain himself before the decision was made.
In response to the university’s action, Cooper revealed that he is consulting with legal experts and is considering legal action against the institution. Despite facing mounting criticism, Cooper insists that his academic credentials are legitimate and argues that the university acted improperly in handling the matter.
The scandal has revived long-standing questions about Cooper’s educational background. While some residents of Nimba County believe he did not complete high school, others argue that he met the necessary academic requirements. Despite these disputes, Cooper has held multiple government positions, including Superintendent of Nimba County and Mayor of Ganta.
Civil society organizations and activists have intensified pressure on President Boakai to dismiss Cooper. Anderson Miamen, a leading advocate, criticized the government’s failure to act swiftly. In a social media post, Miamen reminded the President that the university concluded its investigation in October 2024 and found Cooper guilty of academic fraud. He described Cooper’s continued service as a public official as a damaging precedent for the administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
While critics demand his removal, Cooper continues to receive support from some quarters. His backers describe him as a dedicated public servant with a distinguished local and national government career. Supporters argue that his contributions to Nimba County and the nation should not be overshadowed by what they consider an unfair decision by the university.
At the center of the public discourse is activist Martin Kollie, who has been credited with exposing Cooper’s alleged academic fraud. Many have praised Kollie’s persistent advocacy for academic integrity, with social media users applauding the University of Liberia for taking decisive action. Calls for Cooper’s dismissal have grown louder, with critics insisting that his continued presence in government undermines public trust in state institutions.
The Boakai administration has yet to respond publicly to the university’s findings, even as demands for Cooper’s removal intensify. The case continues to fuel debate over integrity in public service and the government’s commitment to combating corruption.
