By Ibrahim Karim Bangura (Tanko)

The President of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), Thomas Daddy Brima, and others were arrested and detained at the Criminal Investigations Department in Freetown for alleged misappropriation of public funds.

Addressing local media on Thursday, the Anti-Corruption Commission boss, Francis Ben Kaifala revealed that a total of $720,144 (seven hundred and twenty thousand, one hundred and forty-four dollars) was transferred to Thomas Daddy Brima’s account between June 25, 2021, and July 12, 2024.

The systematic corruption act according to Mr. Keifala was done by the current President of the Sierra Leone Football Association SLFA, Thomas Daddy Brima, acting Secretary General, Mohamed Benson Bawoh and the Financial Secretary, Ibrahim Bah respectively.

In a statement released shortly after regaining his freedom, Brima maintained his innocence and called on the ACC to fully pursue its investigation in a transparent and fair manner.

“Today, on my release from CID on alleged graft by the ACC, I encourage the Commissioners to do their utmost best in proving their claims. As a President who believes in fostering the development of football, I am sure that there is nothing to hide in my cupboard,” Brima confidently said.

The SLFA President emphasized that his four-year tenure has been dedicated to improving the football landscape in Sierra Leone, with a strong focus on transparency, inclusion and development. “My four years have been about making the game a beautiful one for all. Let justice be done. Football must develop in Sierra Leone,” he added.

But, sources close to Africa24 confirmed that Thomas Daddy Brima’s legacy on transparency and accountability are highly questionable.