— Case Nolle Prosequi By The State

(MONROVIA, LIBERIA), Reports alleging that Liberia Football Association (LFA) President Mustapha I. Raji “evaded justice” following an attempted arrest by sheriffs of the Paynesville Magisterial Court are misleading and fail to reflect the full legal context, as the matter in question has been nolle prosequi.

The allegation originated from a complaint filed by Bishop Klayee Jubilee FC President James Nimene, who accused Mr. Raji of simple assault and disorderly conduct after an exchange at the LFA headquarters in the Swankamore community. Pursuant to the complaint, Stipendiary Magistrate William G. Saygah issued a writ of arrest.

Although some reports suggested that court sheriffs were unable to execute the writ on Mr. Raji on January 27, 2026, legal experts emphasize that a delay or inability to immediately execute a writ does not constitute “evasion of justice,” particularly where there is no evidence of resistance, obstruction, or deliberate defiance of lawful authority by the accused. Notably, the matter did not proceed to trial.

Contrary to ongoing mischaracterizations, the State has entered a nolle prosequi, a formal legal instrument under Liberian criminal procedure whereby the prosecution declares it will no longer pursue the matter. Once entered, it effectively terminates the case unless the State decides to refile, which has not occurred in this instance.

Legal authorities clarify that a nolle prosequi does not imply guilt, nor does it validate allegations made in a private complaint. Rather, it signifies that the State determined there was insufficient legal basis or public interest to continue prosecution.

“The narrative of ‘evading justice’ collapses once the legal outcome is properly understood,” a senior legal practitioner noted. “Justice was not evaded; the justice system exercised its discretion and discontinued the matter.”

Amid the continuing negative publicity, no court has made any finding of criminal liability against Mr. Raji, and there is currently no pending criminal case arising from the incident. He continues to serve as President of the Liberia Football Association, with no judicial order limiting his liberty or public functions.

Legal experts have warned that spreading unverified or misleading claims about ongoing or concluded legal matters poses serious risks. Sensational reporting can erode public trust in the justice system, and create a climate of misinformation. In this case, portraying Mr. Raji as having “evaded justice” not only distorts the legal facts but risks misleading the public into perceiving guilt where the law has determined otherwise.

By: Alfred Morris