By Precious D. Freeman
The Supreme Court has ordered the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to vacate a two-and-a-half-acre property in Oldest Congo Town, in a landmark ruling that has significant implications for land ownership and religious institutions in Liberia,
This ruling comes after a lengthy and contentious legal battle involving the estate of the late Joseph V. Gaye and underscores the complexities surrounding land disputes in the country.
The Supreme Court’s directive mandates the Church to relinquish possession of the property, reaffirming the estate’s rightful ownership.
This decision follows a previous ruling on August 27, 2024, which confirmed the Gaye estate’s claim to the land.
The Sixth Judicial Circuit Civil Law Court, under the leadership of Judge Schelor R. Dunbar, has taken immediate action to enforce the writ of possession, ensuring that the estate’s interests are upheld.
Captain Pobleh Wea, the County Sheriff, has been assigned the critical task of ensuring that the plaintiffs, representing the Gaye estate, regain full and unrestricted access to the land.
The property in question is specifically described as beginning at the southwestern corner of John Cox’s property and extending in multiple directions, according to detailed measurements provided in the court documents.
The legal struggle began in 2020 when the estate first secured a favorable ruling in the Civil Law Court. However, the Church appealed the decision, prolonging the dispute.
The Supreme Court’s recent ruling has finally resolved this drawn-out legal saga, much to the relief of the Gaye estate’s administrators.
One administrator commented on the years of uncertainty faced by the estate and expressed gratitude for the court’s decision, which they believe will provide closure and restore rightful ownership.
The court has emphasized the urgency of compliance, insisting that the Church vacate the premises immediately and without delay.
This decision is poised to impact not just the parties involved, but also the broader community in Oldest Congo Town, where land disputes are not uncommon and often reflect deeper societal issues.
As developments continue, residents and stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation, eager to see how the enforcement of this ruling will unfold and what it means for the future of property rights in Liberia.
Further updates will be provided regarding the Church’s compliance with the writ and any community responses to this significant legal decision.
