MONROVIA, Liberia — The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) has initiated 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 programme and subsequently circulated on social media.
The controversy emerged on October 28, 2026, when a Nigerian businessman reportedly accused the three officials of collecting money from him in exchange for facilitating a contract to develop software for the revenue-collecting institution.
Responding to the allegations, the LRA said Commissioner General James Dorbor Jallah has instructed the Authority’s Professional Ethics Division to conduct a comprehensive and independent investigation into the matter.
The investigation is intended to establish the facts surrounding the claims, with the Authority indicating that measures have been introduced to protect potential evidence, prevent undue influence and ensure that the process remains impartial.
The LRA acknowledged the seriousness of the accusations, stressing that allegations of corruption involving public officials could undermine institutional credibility and public confidence.
However, the Authority cautioned against treating the accusations as established facts, noting that the employees named in the allegations are entitled to due process and fair treatment throughout the investigation.
It also disclosed that any temporary administrative measures deemed necessary would be guided by its Human Resource Policy, ethical standards and existing institutional procedures.
Commissioner General Jallah reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to accountability, warning that anyone found responsible for misconduct would face appropriate consequences.
“The LRA belongs to the Liberian people, and public trust is the foundation of everything we do. These allegations are serious, and they will be investigated fully, fairly and without fear or favor,” Jallah said.
He further emphasized that no employee is exempt from the Authority’s rules, adding that disciplinary action would follow if wrongdoing is established, while those cleared of the allegations would also be formally exonerated.
The LRA further warned that cases involving proven misconduct could be forwarded to relevant national institutions for additional action in accordance with Liberian law.
Meanwhile, members of the public possessing credible information related to the allegations have been encouraged to submit reports through the whistleblowing platform on the LRA’s official website.
The Authority said information provided through the platform would be handled under applicable confidentiality procedures.
The LRA assured the public that it would release updates as the investigation progresses, while protecting the integrity of the process and the rights of all individuals involved.
