WCR Governor advised to take action on looming land dispute

By Yusupha Jobe

Governor Lamin Sanneh of West Coast Region has been advised to take action and address the rising land dispute within the region.

Momodou Charreh Gibba, wrote in a letter dispatched to Governor Sanneh that “I strongly believe that you know the problem of West Coast Region more than any other Governor including your predecessors.

The problem of the region is many but land disputes are the most dangerous, critical and complex issues. On that note, please allow me to remind you the tragedy that befell Farato, Faraba and Gunjur village. A similar situation or conflict is looming around Jambur, Sukuta salagi.

“It is an indication that the whole of Kombo is sitting on a time bomb and must not be downplayed or underestimated. I therefore appeal to you and the land commission to take full responsibility as the commission is under your purview. Your office shall be held responsible if any further loss of life or conflict is reported again,” the letter added.

“Our people obeyed the laws, went to courts and won their land cases, yet justice could not be delivered. It is disappointing that we could not still see the work of the land commission since they were formed. It is high time this matter is taken with seriousness to avoid any possible land conflicts and the loss of human lives,” he urged.

Mr Gibba’s letter to the Governor of the region come days amid row over land between people of Sukuta and Department of Physical Planning which saw the Department demolished dozens of homes in Salagi. But Ministry of Lands however backed the action of the Department saying it is State reserved land.