Student Leadership Crisis Erupts: GGUSA-UL Suspends GGUSU Heads Over L$3.7M, As Neah Warns of Rival Claims

Monrovia – A full-blown student leadership crisis has hit the Grand Gedeh student community at the University of Liberia, as the Grand Gedeh University Students Association (GGUSA-UL) suspends top leaders of the Grand Gedeh University Students Union (GGUSU) over allegations of mismanaging more than L$3.7 million intended for an induction ceremony.

GGUSA-UL on Monday announced the suspension of GGUSU President Thomas S. Neah and Secretary Wlekumon Tenty, citing lack of accountability and transparency. The group condemned a recent Capitol Building press conference by GGUSU as “misleading” and unrepresentative of student values.

The association revealed that key contributions made toward the program included L$100,000 and US$500 from Grand Gedeh District #1 Representative Jeremiah G. Sokan, and other donations from lawmakers, professionals, and institutions.

“These contributions raise legitimate questions regarding financial accountability,” GGUSA-UL said, demanding a full audit and urging the Grand Gedeh Legislative Caucus to suspend all engagements with GGUSU leadership until a public report is released.

But days before the GGUSA-UL statement, GGUSU President Thomas Neah had already issued a public warning, urging stakeholders not to recognize any group or individual claiming GGUSA-UL leadership. He referenced a formal complaint from SRC member Eli P. Zarzar, noting the union is actively addressing the internal issue.

As the rift widens, concerns are mounting over trust, transparency, and the unity of Grand Gedeh students on campus.

𝐁𝐖𝐈 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐬 𝐆𝐎𝐋, 𝐂𝐒𝐀 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬

(KAKATA, June 2, 2025)-In a heartfelt message of appreciation, Dr. Nancy T. Freeman, Principal of the Booker Washington Institute (BWI), has expressed profound gratitude to the Government of Liberia, the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP), and the Civil Service Agency (CSA) for approving a long-awaited salary adjustment for BWI’s teaching staff.

In a Facebook post shared Monday evening, Dr. Freeman revealed that over US$30,000 has been allocated for salary increases for teachers under the CSA payroll, following months of advocacy and dialogue with national authorities. The adjustment, she noted, will take effect immediately, with teachers set to receive their revised pay beginning tomorrow.

“This is just the beginning,” Dr. Freeman stated, adding that while the decision marks a significant breakthrough, further steps must be taken to ensure all staff members—particularly support personnel—are equally recognized.

She extended thanks to the BWI Workers’ Union, Senator Nathaniel McGill, and the Margibi Legislative Caucus for their unwavering support, and praised the resilience of BWI’s staff throughout the difficult period of salary discrepancies.

“We will not rest until every one of you receives your fair and rightful benefits,” Dr. Freeman assured.

Her message reflects a broader call for equity, unity, and continued advocacy for the dignity and welfare of all workers at Liberia’s premier vocational and technical institution.