By Pewu Y. Sumo
Monrovia – The Ministry of National Defense has announced that the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) will forfeit nearly 23 acres of land at the 72nd Barracks, focusing its recovery efforts on only 14 acres of the occupied property.
Speaking on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at the Ministry of Information (MOI) press briefing, Hon. Spencer Leeco, Deputy Minister for Operations, clarified the military’s position. He noted that while the total military property encompasses approximately 37 acres, the AFL is currently only seeking to reclaim 14 acres.
Clarity Amid Public Outcry
The Ministry’s statement follows significant public backlash and claims from local residents who insist they purchased their plots legitimately. Minister Leeco explained that efforts to recover the barracks land date back to the administration of former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf but were repeatedly delayed due to humanitarian appeals.
“The decision to forfeit nearly 23 acres of land, with no future plan to recover it, is being done in the spirit of humility,” Leeco stated.
A History of Deferrals
According to the Deputy Minister, a similar recovery attempt was made last year. However, the AFL paused the process after residents appealed for more time, citing concerns that an immediate relocation would disrupt their children’s education during the academic school year.
Current Status
Last month, AFL personnel notified occupants within the targeted zone to vacate the area within 14 days, subsequently barricading the perimeter. This move sparked a wave of concern, with families highlighting the severe economic impact and personal hardship of a forced relocation.
Despite the outcry, the Ministry maintains that the recovery of the 14-acre portion is necessary for military operations, even as they concede the remaining land to the current occupants.
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