The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) has ordered a formal investigation into allegations of bribery and extortion involving three of its employees, including two Assistant Commissioners, following accusations aired during a live radio broadcast and widely circulated on social media.
According to the LRA, the allegations stem from claims made by a man identified as a Nigerian businessman, who accused the officials of receiving money from him under the guise of facilitating the award of a software development contract for the Authority.
In a statement issued Friday, the LRA said it takes the allegations seriously and remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and accountability in the administration of Liberia’s revenue system.
The Authority disclosed that Commissioner General James Dorbor Jallah has directed the Professional Ethics Division to conduct a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the claims.
“The investigation is underway, with appropriate safeguards in place to preserve evidence, prevent interference, and ensure fairness throughout the process,” the statement noted.
The LRA emphasized that the allegations remain unproven and that all employees named in the matter are entitled to due process and fair treatment while the investigation proceeds. It added that any interim administrative measures will be taken in accordance with the institution’s human resource policies, ethical guidelines, and established procedures.
Addressing the controversy, Commissioner General Jallah said public confidence in the institution remains paramount.
“The LRA belongs to the Liberian people, and public trust is the foundation of everything we do,” Jallah stated. “These allegations are serious, and they will be investigated fully, fairly, and without fear or favor. No one is above the rules of this Authority. Where wrongdoing is established, appropriate action will follow, and where staff are cleared, that too will be made known.”
The Authority further assured the public that any employee found culpable of misconduct will face appropriate administrative or disciplinary sanctions consistent with the LRA’s policies and core values. It also indicated that cases may be referred to relevant national authorities where legal action is warranted.
As part of efforts to strengthen transparency and accountability, the LRA encouraged individuals with credible information related to the allegations to make use of its whistleblowing platform available through the institution’s official website. The Authority said all reports will be handled in line with established confidentiality procedures.
The investigation comes amid heightened public scrutiny following the broadcast of the allegations and the subsequent discussion they generated online.
The LRA pledged to provide updates at appropriate stages of the investigation while safeguarding both the integrity of the process and the rights of all individuals involved. Officials say the inquiry is intended to establish the facts surrounding the allegations and reinforce public confidence in the institution’s commitment to ethical conduct and accountability.
