The Liberia Land Authority (LLA) has officially confirmed that the disputed communities of Jueh and Gbokon are entirely within the boundaries of the Dowein Clan, ending years of uncertainty between the people of Dowein and Toboe Clans.
According to the findings presented by the LLA in Yarpah Town, Rivercess County, Dowein holds full political authority and ownership over the contested areas located on the right bank of the Cestos River in Central Rivercess Statutory District, north of the Doe River.
The presentation ceremony brought together hundreds of women, youth, chiefs, elders, religious and traditional leaders, and former lawmakers. The findings were read by Mr. Ezekiel B. Weah, Assistant Director of the Customary Land Rights Division, who led the LLA team, including Emmanuel Chedeh Davis, Assistant Director for Communications and Outreach.
Speaking during the ceremony, Mr. Weah urged residents, especially the youth, to prioritize dialogue over violence in resolving land issues. He emphasized that the LLA, under its new Chairman, is committed to transparent and impartial adjudication.
“This process is about fostering unity for the betterment of Rivercess County,” he noted, while calling on the County Land Administrator to work with the court to ensure adherence to its final verdict.
Receiving the findings, His Honor Judge D. Onesimus Banwon, Resident Judge of the 14th Judicial Circuit Court, expressed gratitude to the LLA for its professionalism.
“This is what we must encourage. We must give room for our young generation. I want to thank the LLA Chairman for trusting such young and knowledgeable individuals who understand the sector’s language so well,” Judge Banwon said.
He commended the LLA for providing a professional and unbiased report, enabling the court to conclude its ruling.
Judge Banwon further praised the patience of the people of Dowein and Toboe Clans and urged the county’s youth to be inspired by the dedication and technical expertise demonstrated by the LLA team.
The ruling is expected to ease tensions between the clans and reinforce peaceful coexistence as residents await the court’s final judgment based on the LLA’s conclusive recommendations.
