A viral video showing President Julius Maada Bio’s niece, Madam Admire Bio, and her husband issuing threats against journalist Amadu Lamrana Bah has sparked widespread condemnation and renewed debate about press freedom and accountability in Sierra Leone.
In the video, the couple can be heard using abusive language and issuing verbal threats, including promises of physical violence, against Mr. Bah, a presenter at Truth Radio. The threats reportedly stemmed from Mr. Bah’s coverage of alleged involvement by the pair in the illegal kush (synthetic cannabis) trade.
The video has drawn sharp criticism from human rights groups, journalists, and the general public, many of whom view the incident as a direct attack on press freedom and a contradiction of President Bio’s public stance against drug trafficking.
President Bio has consistently declared a zero-tolerance policy on kush and other illicit drugs, describing the epidemic as a “national emergency” threatening Sierra Leone’s youth. Observers now question whether those close to the presidency are being held to the same standard.
In a strongly worded statement, human rights activist Khadija Tejan Nabie condemned the threats and called for an immediate investigation by the government and law enforcement authorities.
“Threats against individuals engaged in vital public service, such as reporting on illegal drugs, undermine efforts to build a safer and healthier society,” Nabie said. “The safety and security of journalists are paramount to a functioning democracy and the public’s right to information.”
The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) also condemned the incident in a formal statement, describing it as a grave attack on press freedom and a violation of constitutional rights.
“We are deeply disturbed by this report. Threats against journalists are unacceptable and must be treated with the utmost seriousness,” said SLAJ President, Alhaji Manika Kamara.
SLAJ cited Sections 11 and 25(1) of the 1991 Constitution, which guarantee freedom of the press and expression, urging the Sierra Leone Police to conduct a full investigation and ensure the protection of Mr. Bah and other journalists.
“An attack on one journalist is an attack on every Sierra Leonean’s right to know,” Kamara added.
As of publication, no official comment has been received from Madam Admire Bio, her husband, or the Office of the President.
The controversy comes at a time when the government is under pressure to show results in its anti-drug campaign and to demonstrate equal accountability regardless of political or familial connections.
Observers say the outcome of this case will be a major test of President Bio’s commitment to press freedom, rule of law, and the fight against kush — an epidemic threatening to erode the country’s social fabric.
