Monrovia, Liberia – Liberian journalist and talk show host Sekou Sheriff has accused senior officials of the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) of making threats against his life. In a formal complaint addressed to Press Union of Liberia (PUL) President Julius K. Kanubah, Sheriff named Assistant Commissioner of the Large Tax Division Margaret Krote and IT Director Kollie Zayzay as key figures in the alleged harassment and intimidation.
Sheriff recounted that the incident took place on February 1, 2025, at Roberts International Airport (RIA), where he had gone to drop off a friend traveling on Kenya Airways. While waiting in the parking lot, he was approached by Krote and several LRA officials. Upon responding out of courtesy, Sheriff claimed he was met with a torrent of insults and direct threats.
According to his complaint, Krote accused him of making defamatory remarks on his radio show regarding an independent audit into tax fraud involving a private company. Sheriff had reported on allegations that a company had defrauded the Liberian government of millions of dollars, prompting an LRA investigation that eventually confirmed fraudulent activities. Instead of addressing his concerns through legal avenues, Sheriff alleged that Krote and her colleagues attempted to instigate a physical altercation at the airport. Sensing the risk, Sheriff’s colleague, Samira Wonlah, advised him to leave immediately. Despite his departure, he claimed the threats continued.
Sheriff’s allegations have sparked concerns about press freedom and journalist safety in Liberia, especially in cases involving high-ranking government officials. He voiced fears for his personal security, citing past instances of unexplained killings in the country.
“Receiving threats from officials in the current government, especially at LRA, makes me feel very unsafe,” Sheriff stated in his complaint. He urged the Press Union of Liberia to take urgent action to protect him and hold those responsible accountable.
