By Director Moisa
n a bold and reassuring move underscoring Sierra Leone’s unwavering commitment to peace and sovereignty, the Office of National Security (ONS), under the competent leadership of National Security Coordinator Mr. Abdulai Caulker, has taken the lead in a renewed and high-level diplomatic engagement to de-escalate tensions between Sierra Leone and the Republic of Guinea over the long-disputed border town of Yenga.
The visit came in response to recent alarming developments, including persistent reports of harassment and intimidation by members of the Guinean Armed Forces (GAF) against Sierra Leonean citizens residing in Yenga, Sokoma, Paegobengu, Fendu, and Weima. These aggressive actions by the GAF, including firing gunshots in the air and preventing locals from accessing their farms, have not only disrupted peaceful coexistence but have also sparked a mass displacement of residents into Koindu, now a hub for internally displaced persons (IDPs).
In light of this crisis, President Julius Maada Bio, who has consistently advocated for peaceful coexistence and regional diplomacy, mandated a high-level delegation led by the Honourable Minister of Internal Affairs, Rtd. AIG Morie Lengor, to visit Koindu. The delegation, coordinated by ONS Boss Abdulai Caulker, also included the Deputy Minister of Defence, the Minister of State (East), representatives from the Mano River Union, and other senior security stakeholders.
Defending Sovereignty Through Diplomacy
Mr. Abdulai Caulker reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s resolve to safeguard its territorial integrity, stating unequivocally that the nation’s preference for diplomacy should not be mistaken for weakness. “We are pursuing peace, but Sierra Leone remains a sovereign state with every right to self-defense,” he declared.
Mr. Caulker stressed the urgent need for a Mano River Union (MRU) summit to address this issue decisively, warning that protracted delays could have regional implications. He acknowledged the increasing frustration of displaced residents, especially the youth, who are suffering from halted commercial activities and rising unemployment due to the closure of cross-border trade routes.
Unity in Leadership: A Strong Team on the Ground
The visit was not only a demonstration of state presence but a firm assurance to the people of Kissi Teng that they are not alone. The Honourable Minister of Internal Affairs conveyed President Bio’s message of peace, unity, and firm diplomatic engagement. He reminded all stakeholders that this visit was about gathering critical insights, restoring confidence, and finding a peaceful and permanent solution.
He expressed disappointment over the inability of local mechanisms to resolve what he termed “a manageable issue,” but assured residents that the government is putting its full weight behind a diplomatic resolution. “This is not about taking sides or making accusations,” he said. “This is about securing peace and protecting lives.”
Appeal for Immediate Demilitarization and Bilateral Dialogue
Importantly, the Paramount Chief of Nongoa Chiefdom in Guinea, who was present at the engagement, lamented the suffering of his people caused by the impasse and echoed calls for the immediate demilitarization of Yenga and surrounding areas. This rare show of unity from both Sierra Leonean and Guinean local authorities signals hope that grassroots diplomacy can complement high-level negotiations.
The Paramount Chief of Kissi Teng, meanwhile, called for restraint and cooperation between the two “brother nations,” emphasizing that citizens on both sides of the border see themselves as one people.
The Road Ahead: Key Recommendations and Strategic Actions
In the wake of the visit and based on assessments made, the following urgent recommendations have been put forward:
• Presidential Briefings: Immediate and comprehensive updates to the Presidents of Sierra Leone and Guinea to fast-track a resolution.
• Sustained Security Presence: Continued deployment of RSLAF and SLP personnel in affected areas until peace is fully restored.
• MRU Involvement: The reactivation of Joint Border Security and Confidence Building Units by the Mano River Union.
• Trade Revival: Establishment of local buying centers in Koindu to stimulate internal trade and alleviate economic hardship.
• Diplomatic Dominance: Prioritization of bilateral talks and peaceful negotiations as the most sustainable path forward.
A Call for Patience, Peace, and Purpose
In closing, the Office of National Security, in coordination with all government arms, continues to call on residents, particularly the youth, to remain peaceful and avoid
taking the law into their own hands. The government is listening, acting, and advocating on all fronts — regionally and internationally — to ensure justice, peace, and development.
Sierra Leone has chosen the path of peace, but peace must be pursued with courage, strategy, and resolve — virtues being demonstrated today by President Bio, ONS Boss Abdulai Caulker, and all national stakeholders working tirelessly to restore calm and secure the dignity of every Sierra Leoneans
“We are one people across these borders. Let diplomacy lead the way. Let peace prevail.”