A high-stakes legal battle has erupted between Liberia’s Executive Protection Service (EPS) Director Sam Gaye and former Liberia Maritime Authority Commissioner Eugene Lenn Nagbe, following controversial remarks about a purported photograph linking Gaye to a threatening image of former President George Weah.
Gaye has filed a $2 million defamation lawsuit against Nagbe at the Civil Law Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Monrovia, accusing him of spreading false claims that damaged his reputation. The case stems from an interview Nagbe gave on OK FM 99.5 on March 31, where he referenced reports alleging that Gaye kept a photo in his bedroom showing a gun pointed at Weah, a claim Gaye insists is entirely fabricated.
In his lawsuit, Gaye argues that Nagbe’s statements were reckless and defamatory, causing him “severe reputational harm.” He is seeking legal redress to clear his name and hold Nagbe accountable.
Nagbe, however, has dismissed the lawsuit as an intimidation tactic. Speaking to reporters on Monday after being served court documents, he called the legal action “frivolous and completely without merit.”
“I trust the judicial system, and I am confident that this vainglorious attempt to intimidate will be thrashed and squashed,” Nagbe declared.
He confirmed that he has retained legal representation from the International Law Group, led by prominent attorney Cllr. Jonathan Massaquoi, to defend him in court. Nagbe also stated that he would refrain from further public comments on the matter without legal counsel.
“Henceforth, I will speak to this issue only through or with the advice of my lawyers,” he said.
The lawsuit has sparked a heated debate among political analysts, civil society groups, and legal experts. Some view it as an attack on free speech, particularly given Nagbe’s role as a former government official commenting on national security matters.
“Eugene spoke as a concerned citizen and former official,” said one political observer. “This should have prompted a national discussion, not a lawsuit.”
Critics argue that the case could set a dangerous precedent, discouraging public discourse and accountability in Liberia’s democracy. Others, however, contend that if Gaye’s reputation was indeed harmed by false allegations, he has a right to seek legal recourse.
Legal analysts are divided on the case’s merits. Some believe the court must carefully weigh the alleged damage to Gaye’s credibility, while others warn that excessive litigation could stifle legitimate criticism of public officials.
The case is scheduled for hearing during the court’s June Term, setting the stage for a closely watched legal showdown. As both sides prepare their arguments, the controversy continues to fuel discussions about the balance between free speech, accountability, and the rights of public figures in Liberia.
For now, all eyes remain on the judiciary as it prepares to rule on a case that could have lasting implications for Liberia’s political and legal landscape.
