The Liberia Football Association (LFA) has stated that a case involving its president, Mustapha Raji, has been dismissed by the Paynesville Magisterial Court, following earlier reports that the CAF Executive Committee member had been ordered arrested over alleged assault.
In a media release dated January 28, 2025, the LFA said the court formally dismissed the case on January 27 due to insufficient evidence.
The Association added that it respected the authority of the court and the judicial process that led to the decision.
The statement comes a day after reports emerged that a magistrate’s court in Paynesville had ordered the arrest of Mr Raji following allegations by the president of Jubilee FC, James Nimene, who accused the LFA boss of assault and disorderly conduct during a meeting at the federation’s headquarters.
Those reports indicated that sheriffs had visited the LFA premises to enforce the arrest order after Mr Raji allegedly failed to appear in court, but were unable to locate him at the time.
The incident was said to have occurred on January 24 during a dispute linked to player registration and governance issues involving Jubilee FC.
However, the LFA has strongly disputed aspects of those reports, insisting that Mr Raji complied fully with all legal requirements throughout the proceedings and was duly represented by his legal counsel.
The Association further clarified that at no point was its president arrested, nor did he attempt to evade the justice system, contrary to claims circulating on social media and in sections of the media.
Mr Raji, who also sits on the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Executive Committee, has not issued a personal statement on the matter.
Jubilee FC and its president, James Nimene, are also yet to publicly respond to the court’s reported dismissal of the case.
The LFA said it remains focused on its mandate of promoting and developing football in Liberia, particularly as it prepares for its April Elective Congress, and reaffirmed its commitment to integrity, transparency and respect for the rule of law.
The Association also urged the media and the public to rely on verified court outcomes and accurate information when reporting on matters of public interest.
The development is expected to continue drawing attention within Liberian and African football circles, given Mr Raji’s prominent role at both national and continental levels.
