Justice Mohamed Momoh Jah-Stevens of the Court of Appeal has been sent on administrative leave following allegations that have sparked widespread public concern.
A press release from the Judiciary of Sierra Leone on Monday stated that the Chief Justice took the decision in light of “several media publications” surrounding the judge, warning that the reports could damage the institution’s reputation. The matter has now been referred to the Judicial and Legal Service Commission (JLSC) for review.
The controversy stems from an ongoing domestic violence case involving 21-year-old law student Edwina Hawa Jamiru, the mother of Justice Jah-Stevens’ child. The judge filed charges against her, but Jamiru missed a scheduled court appearance on September 25, leading to a bench warrant. In a subsequent video statement, she claimed the judge prevented her attendance, accused him of neglecting his parental responsibilities, and alleged he obstructed her access to justice.
The Judiciary emphasized that the suspension takes immediate effect while the JLSC considers next steps. The case has intensified debate about judicial accountability in Sierra Leone.
