13/03/2026
STATEMENT BY THE LIBERIA COUNCIL OF CHURCHES
Ref: Security Situation at Lofa Border
The Liberia Council of Churches (LCC) held a consultative meeting with Cllr. Natu Oswald Tweh, Sr. Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Republic of Liberia on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at the Ministry of Justice. The purpose of the meeting was for the LCC to gather information on the security situation in Lofa County, focusing on the government's interpretation of the ongoing crisis at the border point and exploring how the Church (LCC) and the broader faith community could contribute to a peaceful resolution.
Throughout the discussions, it emerged that the root causes of the conflicts were not fundamentally religious in nature. Instead, they were deeply intertwined with economic tensions stemming from sand mining and mineral extraction activities in the border region. These extractive enterprises have created a fertile ground for disputes, particularly as communities on both sides of the border assert their claims to land through the symbolic display of the Liberian and Guinean flags. This dual movement of flag-waving has become a powerful expression of ownership and territoriality, further exacerbating existing rivalries.
The government acknowledged the heightened tensions among the youth from both Liberia and Guinea, which escalated to alarming incidents of violence. Accounts shared described aggressive confrontations where young individuals displayed machetes and single-barrel guns, tragically culminating in a shooting incident that left one youth injured. The Council expressed deep regret over the current circumstances, voicing strong condemnation of the violent acts that had taken place and extending heartfelt sympathy to the victim of the shooting.
In a proactive attempt to manage the crisis, the government of Liberia deployed police officers; however, they strategically refrained from positioning them directly at the border site of the violence. This decision was aimed at preventing further incitement and avoiding any potential escalation of hostilities.
The government's representatives detailed a series of diplomatic initiatives undertaken with the Guinean government to mitigate any misunderstandings that might lead to the perception of a border conflict between the two nations.
The government reiterated its commitment to diplomatic engagement, emphasizing the importance of keeping the border open while simultaneously studying the historical context of the border points. The government pledged to increase patrols to ensure the safety and security of citizens in the region remained the top priority.
Additionally, the Council called upon the government to prioritize and expedite diplomatic negotiations. They urged for the establishment of a secure border line, with law enforcement present to deter any illegal activities at border entry points.
The LCC encouraged community members to remain patient, allowing the government time to implement its diplomatic strategies to resolve the situation effectively.
The Council commended the security forces for their measured response, which helped to prevent further escalation of tension. They underscored the necessity of adhering to ECOWAS protocols regarding the free movement of citizens, while also respecting national and regional agreements and conventions.
In closing, the meeting offered a heartfelt prayer for the nations involved, invoking blessings for the restoration of peace and the promotion of good neighborly relations.
Signed by: Rev. Dr. Christopher Wleh Toe, I.
GENERAL SECRETARY, LCC
