By Pewu Y. Sumo
LOFA COUNTY, LIBERIA — Amid escalating border tensions between Liberia and Guinea, Liberians at home and in the diaspora are hailing the “courageous youth” of Foya District. These young citizens have been praised for their bold defense of Liberia’s sovereignty after Guinean soldiers allegedly crossed the border and hoisted the Guinean flag on Liberian soil.
The Incident in Foya
The dispute gained national attention following reports that armed Guinean soldiers entered Liberian territory near the Sorlumba border crossing. The soldiers reportedly halted a local road project, seized heavy construction equipment, and lowered the Liberian flag.
In response, the Government of Liberia dispatched a delegation to resolve the issue and secure the return of the seized equipment. Internal Affairs Minister Hon. Francis Nyumalin, who headed the delegation, met with Guinean authorities to address the matter amicably.
A Display of Patriotism
However, it was the actions of the local youth that captured the nation’s heart. In a powerful display of patriotism caught on video, the youth stood their ground as foreign troops began to withdraw. The young Liberians immediately re-hoisted the Liberian flag and sang the national anthem. Images of the youth saluting the “Lone Star” as it rose back to its rightful place have since gone viral, sparking widespread commendation.
National Reactions
The act of defiance has drawn praise from across the political and social spectrum:
Moses Garzeawu (Former BBC Correspondent): “Today’s display of bravery and defiance echoed a long tradition in Lofa: that we are a people shaped by migration, struggle, and an enduring readiness to stand for the land we call our own. This is what makes us Lofa.”
Economic Freedom Fighters of Liberia (EFFL): “This is the true spirit of Liberian courage and patriotism. No one was talking about political parties or blaming any administration. Instead, they stood together as one people to defend the flag… they faced armed men just to raise their national flag in a disputed territory.”
Ms. Vickjune Wutoh (Women’s Rights Advocate): “We will kuss each other in this country over politics, tribe, or religion, but our flag is our HEART and SOUL. I am so proud of these young people.”
Martin K.N. Kollie (Activist): “Please congratulate these brave young Liberians who stood up to defend our territory, our history, our heritage, our flag, and our national interests. This is history. They deserve to be HONORED with red, white, and blue.”
Freddie Fred (Social Media Influencer): “All hail, Liberia, hail! Lofa youth are on top… Liberia’s flag is hoisted once again! We will not take nonsense… Let’s fight man to man.”
Government Call for Calm
Meanwhile, the Government of Liberia, in a statement released through the Ministry of Information (MICAT), has called for calm. The administration emphasized that it is continuing diplomatic efforts with its West African neighbor to ensure a permanent and peaceful resolution to the border demarcation.
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