Says PUL

PHOTO: Julius Kanubah, PUL President

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Four Journalists Released, After Detention by Traditional Poro Society in Margibi County

(9 April 2026): The Press Union of Liberia (PUL) confirms the release of four journalists who were detained by members of the traditional Poro Society in Konotah Community, Margibi County.

The journalists were released in two phases following their detention on April 5, 2026. Journalist Elvis Gono, Upper Margibi County Correspondent for ELBC, was released on the same day after it was traditionally established, through customary rites, that he is a member of the Poro Society.

His colleagues Ackollie Nanakpallah of Margibi-Liberia Online Platform, Willie Jomah of Classic FM, and Ramsey Singbeh, a freelance reporter affiliated with the Daily Observer, remained in detention from April 5 to April 11, 2026.

All three have since been released and have safely returned to their homes in Kakata City, where they have resumed normal activities.

The circumstances surrounding the journalists’ seizure and detention remain unclear.

The affected journalists have declined to publicly discuss the details of their ordeal, citing cultural restrictions that prohibit disclosure of matters associated with the Poro Society.

However, credible accounts from sources familiar with the traditional institution indicate that the journalists were released following the performance of rituals reportedly initiating them into the Poro Society.

While the PUL expresses relief at the safe release of the journalists, the Union strongly condemns their forceful and unlawful detention.

The PUL considers this act a grave violation of press freedom and fundamental human rights, including the rights to freedom of movement and to gather and disseminate information without fear of intimidation or coercion.

The journalists were detained while covering an assignment in Konotah Community, Borlola Township, where they had accompanied Representative Clarence Gahr of Margibi County District #5 to a public event.

The Press Union of Liberia calls on:

• National stakeholders, including the Ministry of Local Government, the Ministry of Information, and relevant human rights institutions, to advance the upholding and safeguarding press freedom across the country.
• Local authorities and traditional leaders, including members of the Poro Society, to respect constitutional rights and national laws.
• Local traditional leaders to acknowledge that while Liberia recognizes and respects cultural practices, such traditions must not override the fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals, especially when participation is not voluntary.

The PUL reiterates its unwavering commitment to the protection of journalists and the defense of press freedom in Liberia.

About the Press Union of Liberia (PUL):

The Press Union of Liberia is the umbrella organization of journalists and media institutions in Liberia. It is dedicated to defending press freedom, promoting professional journalism, and protecting the rights and welfare of media practitioners nationwide

Signed:

Julius Kanubah

President/PUL