By Archie Boan
Documents obtained by Verity News have termed the academic qualification of former Deputy Minister Samora P. Z. Wolokolie as “lacking PhD”. The new Director of the Graduate Program at the University of Liberia, Dr. Joseph D. S. Boldar, says Wolokolie does not have any PhD.
Speaking to Verity News, Dr. Boldar said they have investigated and concluded that Charisma University—where Wolokolie reportedly earned his PhD—is “an online scam that does not exist anywhere in the United Kingdom.”
“The University of Liberia is a center of excellence. We cannot condone fraud. The highest semblance of integrity must be preserved at this institution and at all times,” Dr. Boldar stated firmly.
Multiple reports, including findings from the Campaigners for Academic Crimes Court (CACC), have labeled credentials from Charisma University as “dubious and fake”, adding more controversy to Wolokolie’s academic standing.
Legal Response from Wolokolie’s Camp
However, Torch Professional Consultancy, Inc. (TOPCI), acting on behalf of Atty. Wolokolie, has issued a strongly worded demand letter to Dr. Boldar, calling for a full retraction and public apology or risk facing legal action.
The letter, dated September 19, 2025, accuses Dr. Boldar of making unverified, defamatory remarks that have allegedly caused serious reputational harm to Wolokolie. The consultancy claims Dr. Boldar failed to follow due process by not directly contacting Atty. Wolokolie to verify his credentials before making public statements.
TOPCI, through its Managing Partner Cllr. Powo C. Hilton, Sr., described the accusations as both “demeaning” and “unsubstantiated,” warning that legal consequences would follow unless Boldar meets specific demands within five working days.
Key Issues Outlined in the Letter
The demand letter identifies several core issues:
Dr. Boldar allegedly claimed that Wolokolie lacked PhD documentation and questioned the legitimacy of his teaching assignment.
The statements were reportedly made in relation to internal faculty disputes involving Mr. Othello Mason, without first verifying facts with Atty. Wolokolie.
The comments have allegedly damaged Atty. Wolokolie’s reputation among colleagues, students, and administrators.
TOPCI argues that under academic protocols, university officials have an obligation to verify credentials directly with the individual before raising concerns or making them public. Failing to do so, the letter states, violates principles of academic due process.
Demands Issued to Dr. Boldar
The consultancy outlined a series of formal demands in the letter, including:
A public retraction and correction in the same medium and forum where the original statements were made;
Confirmation that Atty. Wolokolie holds valid academic credentials;
Cessation of any future public statements without verifiable evidence;
A reputational repair plan, including formal clarifications to staff, faculty, and students;
Withdrawal of all unsubstantiated allegations, with an acknowledgment that they were not based on verified facts.
The letter warns that failure to comply will be seen as a deliberate attempt to cause harm, for which Atty. Wolokolie will pursue full legal remedies including civil suits for defamation, injurious falsehood, and reputational damage.
The University of Liberia has not publicly commented on the escalating dispute.
