Blyden's Affidavit Accuses Liberty TV Journalists of Defamation

Blyden's Affidavit Accuses Liberty TV Journalists of Defamation

Sylvia Olayinka Blyden has escalated her complaint against Liberty TV, releasing additional sections of an affidavit that targets journalists Khadijah Bangura and Mabel Kabba for alleged political defamation. The document, supporting a formal complaint lodged with the Independent Media Commission (IMC), asserts that the journalists repeatedly broadcasted and amplified "falsehoods" from Zainab Sheriff, thereby damaging Blyden's public reputation.

Blyden's sworn testimony details numerous instances of alleged misinformation, including false claims that she posted about Sheriff on social media in 2013, visited her home, and secretly recorded a child. She insists these reports are part of an orchestrated political attack and accuses Liberty TV of knowingly participating by failing to retract or disassociate from the defamatory material.

The affidavit accuses Bangura and Kabba of "gutter journalism" and operating contrary to their IMC license, claiming their actions were a deliberate attempt to defame a public figure for political gain. Blyden, who initially approached the IMC in July 2025, stressed that media houses should not be utilized for "political shenanigans" and hopes her complaint will establish a strong precedent for media accountability in Sierra Leone.

The IMC is now tasked with investigating the allegations, which could have significant implications for Liberty TV's license and operations. Blyden concluded her statement by calling for decisive IMC action, noting that supporting witnesses, including Sheriff’s teenage nephew, will be subpoenaed to verify the claims.