The administration of J.J. Roberts United Methodist School has publicly responded to a civil lawsuit seeking three hundred thousand dollars (US$300,000) in damages, filed by a 12th-grade student, Richard Gbaï, over an eye injury sustained during an on-campus altercation.
The case, lodged at the Civil Law Court in Montserrado County, names both the school and Mr. Dolo Mulbah, Assistant Dean for Student Affairs, as defendants. A writ of summons has been issued, marking the start of legal proceedings.
Principal Samuel K. Sagbeh addressed the situation, stating, “The school takes these claims very seriously. We are cooperating fully with the legal process and have launched an internal investigation to ensure all facts surrounding the incident are established. Student safety and well-being remain our top priority.”
The incident occurred on December 18, 2024, with the school being notified the following day. Principal Sagbeh quickly took action to assist the injured student and his family, personally providing US$150 for initial hospital assessment and allocating an additional US$1,000 to cover surgery and medication costs. The Inspector of Police also contributed L$50,000 toward ongoing treatment.
Medical assessments conducted at Cooper Hospital Eye Clinic confirmed no permanent eye damage. A follow-up evaluation at John F. Kennedy Medical Center declared Richard Gbaï visually fit to return to school. Since his readmission, the student has been actively participating in school activities and is currently sitting for the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) exams.
In a message to the school’s digital chatroom, Richard expressed gratitude:
“Good evening everyone, especially the administration. This is just to appreciate you all for the support and concern you have shown me and my family during this situation. I am doing much better and I hope to complete my exams successfully. God bless.”
Despite the school’s efforts, the student’s stepfather, Mr. Tamba, sent a written statement indicating a demand for compensation regardless of the injury’s severity, saying: “Whether the boy sees or not, your institution will pay us.” This comment raises questions about the motivations behind the lawsuit and complicates the school’s attempts at an amicable resolution.
An internal inquiry led by Vice Principal for Student Affairs, Rev. Simon S. Doe, was carried out to ascertain the facts. Mr. Mulbah was instructed to maintain open communication with the student’s family during the recovery process.
Principal Sagbeh concluded:
“We have done everything within our capacity to provide care and support to Richard Gbaï. While we respect the family’s right to pursue legal redress, we are confident in the steps we have taken and remain focused on ensuring justice, transparency, and the continued safety of all our students.”
The school assures the public it will provide further updates as the case progresses through the courts.
