Law School Director Referred to ACC for Misconduct

Law School Director Referred to ACC for Misconduct

The Council of Legal Education has formally referred Dr. Abu Bakarr Bangura, Director of the Sierra Leone Law School, to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) following allegations of financial impropriety, academic malpractice, and administrative misconduct.

In an official statement released on March 27, 2026, the Council detailed that this decision stemmed from an emergency session where members reviewed evidence of systemic irregularities affecting the institution’s operational integrity.

The Council has accepted Dr. Bangura’s resignation, effective June 30, 2026. However, he has been directed to commence an immediate leave of absence pending that date.

The allegations are substantiated by documentary evidence covering several critical areas. Notably, these include claims of unauthorized student admissions conducted without Council oversight and the collection of fees outside established fiscal protocols. Furthermore, the Council noted that individuals not officially enrolled were granted access to the school’s virtual learning platforms.

Administrative concerns also extend to procurement violations. It is alleged that Dr. Bangura initiated a major construction project and entered into contractual agreements without the requisite authorization from the Council, violating statutory procedures.

Additionally, the Council identified several staff appointments that reportedly contravened the provisions of the Council of Legal Education Act, 1989.

Serious allegations of academic malpractice were also raised, specifically regarding the manipulation of academic records, the retroactive passing of students who had failed examinations, and the facilitation of unapproved reference exams.

The referral further highlights the unauthorized acquisition of a commercial bank loan on behalf of the Law School, a move that directly defied explicit prior instructions from the Council.

Finally, the Council addressed pending allegations of sexual harassment. An internal committee has already been established to investigate these claims and ensure a safe environment for all students.

As part of the resolution, Dr. Bangura is required to cooperate fully with investigators and provide all relevant documentation. This includes verified admission lists, procurement records, and financial reports associated with the aforementioned construction projects.

To restore public trust, the Council will commission an independent audit of the school’s admission and procurement practices. Interim leadership will be appointed shortly to oversee daily operations until a permanent Director is selected.

The Council affirmed its full support for the ACC’s investigation, pledging to provide all necessary minutes, financial statements, and administrative records.

Reiterating its commitment to transparency and the rule of law, the Council calls upon all stakeholders to support the integrity of the review process as it moves forward.