Dr. Philip John Kanu, the Vice Chancellor and Principal of Milton Margai University, has filed a lawsuit against Mr. Tejan Sheik Rogers, a lecturer at the same university, accusing him of cyberbullying through social media channels.
The case was brought before Magistrate Santigie Bangura at Pademba Road Court No. 2 on Monday, March 17, 2025. Mr. Rogers is charged with cyberstalking, in violation of Section 44(2)(b) of the Cyber Security and Crime Act of 2001.
The allegations state that between November 1 and 30, 2022, in Freetown, Mr. Rogers distributed audio recordings and text posts on WhatsApp, allegedly targeting the Vice Chancellor and harming his reputation. These communications were reportedly shared in a WhatsApp group named “Maada Must Stay Campaign.”
During the court session, Prosecutor Joan Bull presented evidence from Mr. Bockarie Aiah Sillah, also a lecturer at the university, who confirmed his acquaintance with both parties. Mr. Sillah testified that on November 1, 2022, Mr. Rogers began disseminating audio messages containing accusations of financial and administrative misconduct against the Vice Chancellor. Despite attempts to resolve these issues privately, Mr. Rogers continued to broadcast these claims.
Mr. Sillah also testified about allegations of sexual harassment included in the audio recordings, which caused him significant distress due to his professional relationship with the complainant. He subsequently reported the matter to the Adonkia Police Station and provided a statement to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
During cross-examination, Defense Counsel Zacharia Kanu questioned Mr. Sillah about the relationship between Mr. Rogers and Dr. Kanu. Mr. Sillah confirmed the public dissemination of the voice notes but acknowledged the absence of in-court evidence supporting the allegations.
The defense attempted to present a document showing the WhatsApp group, which was objected to by the prosecution due to its alleged lack of originality. Further inquiry revealed that Mr. Sillah, along with another lecturer, had independently filed a complaint against Mr. Rogers. Mr. Sillah reiterated the corruption allegations against Dr. Kanu and acknowledged the potential for voice manipulation with modern technology, although he maintained his belief in the authenticity of the audios in question.
At this point, the defense requested and was granted an adjournment for the continuation of cross-examination.
The accused, currently released on bail, is scheduled to return to court on March 24, 2025.
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