GBARNGA, BONG — A significant controversy has erupted in the Gbarnga School District as Julius Sevelee, a Chemistry classroom teacher and Dean of Students at Nathaniel Varney Massaquoi High School, faces serious allegations of engaging in a sexual relationship with a female student, resulting in her pregnancy. The teacher, popularly known as “Chemical J,” is under investigation following a formal complaint filed by the victim’s father.
The situation gained traction with reports circulating on social media, prompting the District Education Officer, Mr. P. Kohnkahn Cole, to issue an invitation for Mr. Sevelee to discuss these allegations. The questioning is set for today, July 24, 2025, at 10:00 AM.
According to sources, the complaint was made to the Liberia National Police (LNP) Bong Detachment after the father of the unnamed student discovered his daughter was pregnant. The school administration has also issued a letter, calling for a thorough investigation into Mr. Sevelee’s alleged misconduct, which contravenes the 2014 Code of Conduct for Teachers and School Administrators in Liberia. Community members are urging educational authorities to expedite the investigation process to ensure transparency and uphold the integrity of the educational system.
The allegations point to a clear violation of Section 4.2.1 of the Code of Conduct, which explicitly prohibits any sexual or romantic relationships between educators and students, irrespective of the student’s age or consent. This guideline is in place to protect the moral integrity of the school environment and safeguard student welfare.
In response to the allegations, Mr. Sevelee has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, labeling the claims as false, misleading, and politically motivated attempts to damage his reputation. He asserted that on July 16, 2025, he received notification from the LNP requesting his response to the accusations from the victim’s father. He acknowledged that initial complaints included allegations of rape, which he claims were later retracted.
Mr. Sevelee contends that a preliminary investigation cleared him of the rape allegations. He stated that while under investigation, he received further communication from the school principal, who questioned him regarding the pregnancy. According to Sevelee, he disclosed to the principal that he believed he was responsible for the pregnancy, relying on the police clearance that had absolved him of any prior charges.
Mr. Sevelee explained that he admitted to the pregnancy during an administrative meeting because he wanted to be transparent and believed the police investigation would vindicate him regarding previous allegations. He stated, “I told the PR that what the police say on that clearance is what I will talk about,” and he felt compelled to accept responsibility when asked if he was the father of the pregnancy.
However, following these discussions, sources say the parents and the victim have allegedly been offered huge cash to let go of the situation to free Mr. Sevelee from the looming trouble, particularly being a staunch supporter of Bong County District Two Representative James Kolleh.
As the community awaits updates from the District Education Officer’s office, there is a collective focus on the investigation’s results, highlighting the need for ethical standards in education and the protection of students from exploitation.
This high-profile case has raised concerns among parents and community members regarding the safety of students and the ethical responsibilities of educators. As the investigation unfolds, many are calling for immediate action to ensure justice for the affected parties and to reinforce the standards of conduct expected within the educational system.
