A firestorm of debate has erupted after Musa V. Willie, President of the National Bomi County Association in the Americas (NBCAA), publicly condemned Liberia’s newly completed law school building—branding it a symbol of what he described as “indigenous vampirism.”
In a strongly worded statement circulated online, Willie juxtaposed images of the original law school structure built in 1951 with the modern facility completed in 2026. His post read: “Above is the law school building built in 1951. Below is the law school building built in 2026. Few will forgive us, please. INDIGENOUS VAMPIRISM took over the country after we cried on the Congo people’s name.”
The controversial phrase “indigenous vampirism” sparked widespread reactions, exposing longstanding sensitivities surrounding Liberia’s historic social divisions between Americo-Liberians—historically known as “Congo people”—and indigenous Liberians.
While some interpret Willie’s remarks as a passionate critique of governance, leadership priorities, and national identity, others view his words as inflammatory and needlessly divisive at a time when Liberia’s unity remains fragile.
The newly constructed law school, hailed by government officials as a state-of-the-art center for legal education, is part of Liberia’s broader effort to modernize its academic institutions. Proponents see it as a milestone investment in human capacity and higher learning, symbolizing progress toward national development.
Yet critics like Willie insist that modern buildings mean little without genuine commitment to nation-building, ethical leadership, and reconciliation of deep-rooted socio-political fractures.
Observers say the intensity of the discussion underscores how history continues to shape Liberia’s national discourse. With voices from within Liberia and the diaspora weighing in, the debate has evolved beyond brick and mortar—reviving questions about identity, governance, and the meaning of progress in post-war Liberia.
