Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. For over twenty-five years, I have known Amadu Lambrana Bah — a man I describe as fearless, bold, and uncompromisingly truthful. One of his rare gifts is the ability to look anyone in the eye, no matter their status or influence, and speak the truth as it is. That’s something I deeply admire because, unlike him, I express myself better in writing than in speech. Lambrana, however, thrives in saying aloud what many of us only dare to write.
In recent times, Sierra Leone’s social media landscape — particularly the “blue app” — has been flooded with individuals claiming to be journalists. Many of these so-called “citizen journalists” are quick to sell their integrity for quick fame or financial favors. As I often say, you can buy attention, but you cannot buy credibility.
One lady, whose lavish lifestyle and provocative displays on social media have drawn national attention, seems to believe she can intimidate or silence professionals through online outrage. After seeing her viral video and the anger she exhibited, it was clear how personally offended she felt by being called out. But no matter how many followers or flashy cars one has, that does not buy integrity or professional respect.
What is even more concerning is the growing infiltration of impostors into journalism — young men and women with cameras who think that simply going live on Facebook makes them credible journalists. I recall a Nigerian lecturer once warning us during our journalism training about this disturbing trend. He described the term “citizen journalist” as a dagger in the heart of professional journalism. Yet, sadly, this same phrase has found its way into the curriculum at the University of Sierra Leone’s Mass Communication Department.
Beyond the media’s credibility crisis, Sierra Leone has, for the past seven years, been on the global radar for drug trafficking, especially the spread of the deadly synthetic drug known as Kush. The painful irony is that some individuals accused of links to this trade continue to live freely — even taunting and provoking those genuinely fighting to save the country’s youth from destruction.
Not long ago, a public figure who was on social media defending a friend made allegations of involvement in Kush dealing — allegations tied to the very same individual now stirring controversy. I previously wrote an article on this dangerous trend, questioning the sincerity of authorities in the fight against Kush. Why arrest users and addicts while sparing the dealers and their powerful sponsors? Until Sierra Leone confronts the root of this crisis — the financiers and distributors — our morgues will continue to receive the bodies of young boys and girls who should have been tomorrow’s leaders.
Now, to the current issue: someone boldly going online to demand an apology from a journalist like Amadu Lambrana Bah, who is simply doing his job — and doing it within the ethics and codes established by the Independent Media Commission (IMC). What exactly should he apologize for? For speaking the truth? For asking the hard questions others are afraid to ask?
For too long, Sierra Leone’s media landscape has been hijacked by powerful figures who use money and influence to silence dissent. But Truth Media, where Lamrana serves as a leading voice, has refused to bow to such pressures. It was founded to say the facts — without fear or favor. Sierra Leoneans have long waited for such a platform — one that belongs to no political camp, no business tycoon, and no self-proclaimed socialite.
I proudly stand with my brother and colleague Amadu Lambrana Bah. His courage reminds us that truth is the foundation of national progress. Those who think they are untouchable must remember his words:
“Na di truth dae last.”
“Mortal man nor to God.”
No one is above accountability. Not the politicians, not the dealers, and certainly not those using their wealth and fame to manipulate public discourse.
Source: Sierraloaded
For More News And Analysis About Sierra-Leone Follow Africa-Press
