In a dramatic legal move, former National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) Director General Emma Metieh Glassco has filed a $10 million lawsuit against the Liberian government at the ECOWAS Court of Justice in Abuja, Nigeria.
The lawsuit, registered as case number ECW/CCJ/APP/19/25, alleges that the Liberian government violated Glassco’s fundamental rights by removing her from office without due process and damaging her professional reputation. The case is expected to have its first hearing in the coming weeks.
Glassco, represented by former Supreme Court Justice Cllr. Kabineh M. Ja’neh, claims the government failed to conduct a proper investigation before her removal and publicly tarnished her image without giving her a fair opportunity to defend herself.
The lawsuit cites violations of:
- The African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights
- The Universal Declaration of Human Rights
- Liberia’s own Constitution
According to Legal experts, Glassco’s team chose the regional court because they believe she would not receive a fair trial in Liberia. The ECOWAS Court has jurisdiction over human rights violations within member states, and its rulings are legally binding.
As of now, the Liberian government has not issued an official statement. However, sources close to the Justice Ministry confirm that legal advisors are reviewing the case before formulating a response.
This case raises critical questions about governance and accountability in Liberia:
- Was Glassco’s removal justified, or was it politically motivated?
- Why was she replaced before any investigation concluded?
- If the government loses, will taxpayers bear the $10 million cost?
Public opinion is divided. Some argue that Glassco is right to demand justice, while others question the $10 million compensation demand as excessive.
The ECOWAS Court will soon set a hearing date. If the court rules in Glassco’s favor, Liberia could be forced to pay damages, setting a precedent for how public officials are treated during corruption allegations.
For now, all eyes are on Abuja as this high-stakes legal battle unfolds.
