Courtroom Overcrowding Forces Adjournment, Dumbuya Sent Back to Prison

The high-profile legal proceedings involving Lansana Dumbuya, National Secretary General of the All Peoples Congress (APC), faced another delay on Monday, 16th February 2026, after Magistrate Mustapha Briama Jah adjourned the case, citing overcrowding and security concerns. Dumbuya was subsequently sent back to prison, where he will remain until the next hearing.

Dumbuya is facing three charges: incitement, use of insulting language, and conduct likely to incite disorder, all stemming from an incident at the Brima Attouga Mini Stadium during a rally on January 31, 2026. Court records allege that he referred to President Julius Maada Bio as a thief and encouraged supporters to chant along with him, reportedly saying, “Are wan sing now leh una sing wit me. Maada Bio tifi tifi.”

The police also claim that Dumbuya’s remarks caused annoyance to Officer Francis Tommy, who was present during the rally. When first arraigned, Dumbuya pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Magistrate Jah explained that the courtroom was too crowded to safely proceed with the hearing, raising serious security risks. As a result, the matter was adjourned to February 19, 2026. Dumbuya was remanded to prison pending the next hearing, marking the second adjournment of the case. It was initially scheduled for February 12, 2026, but was postponed to allow for further proceedings.

Representing Dumbuya, lawyers led by Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara expressed dismay over their client’s continued detention. They claimed that he was removed from court without proper notice and were not fully informed of the new adjournment date at the time.

The defence also emphasized the political sensitivity of the charges, calling for fair treatment and adherence to due process.

The case has drawn nationwide attention amid heightened political tensions. Many observers are closely monitoring the proceedings, given Dumbuya’s prominent role in the APC and the broader implications for the political climate ahead of future elections.

With the next hearing scheduled for February 19, all eyes remain on the judiciary to see how it handles this high-profile matter while balancing security and procedural fairness.