Parliament Summons Sierra Leone’s Defence Chief Over School Land Dispute
The Parliament of Sierra Leone has summoned the Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. Gen. Amara Idara Bangura, to explain allegations of land grabbing involving the Services Secondary School.
During proceedings on Wednesday, 10 July 2025, Acting Speaker Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh issued the summons following a passionate submission by Deputy Opposition Leader, Hon. Daniel Brima Koroma.
The lawmaker raised concerns over reported plans to demolish structures on school grounds and reallocate the land to a private businessman.
Citing Standing Order 23, Hon. Koroma said the move directly contradicts the government’s flagship Free Quality Education programme and undermines President Julius Maada Bio’s human capital development agenda.
He called the alleged actions “a conscious insult” to both Parliament and the presidency.
Responding, the Acting Speaker directed the Committees on Defence, Education, and Lands to investigate the matter.
He also instructed the Clerk of Parliament to formally summon the Defence Chief and the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education.
The controversial issue has sparked widespread interest as citizens await answers regarding the protection of public school lands.
More details are available via www.parliament.gov.sl.
