MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The United Methodist University (UMU) Board has dismissed three senior officials, including President Rev. Dr. Yar Gonah, following the conclusion of an internal investigation into financial mismanagement and administrative failures. The decision was reached unanimously after months of staff unrest and mounting concerns over the university’s leadership.
Rev. Dr. Isaac C. Padmore, Vice President for Administration, and Mr. A. Otto Nabie, Chief Finance Officer, were also removed from their positions. Their dismissal follows the recommendations of a special investigative committee commissioned by the Board in October 2024 to probe allegations of misconduct and financial irregularities.
The investigation was triggered by prolonged staff protests over delayed salaries, poor working conditions, and allegations of misuse of university funds. Employees accused the administration of failing to address their grievances while fostering an environment of disrespect and negligence. In its findings, the committee presented a 14-point recommendation that called for leadership changes and the immediate launch of financial and human resources audits.
In response to the investigation’s conclusions, the Board swiftly moved to overhaul the university’s senior management. Effective March 1, 2025, Dr. Emmanuel F. Bailey will serve as the interim President. He will be joined by Dr. Joseph Boldar as Vice President of Finance and Mr. Julius Innis as Chief Finance Officer. The new leadership is tasked with addressing the concerns raised by staff and restoring the university’s financial credibility.
A member of the Board familiar with the investigation said the decision to remove the top officials was necessary to protect the institution’s future. The source described the findings as deeply concerning and noted that decisive action was required to rebuild trust among faculty and staff.
For months, employees at the university had staged go-slow protests to demand payment of overdue salaries and benefits. Staff members accused the outgoing administration of failing to prioritize their welfare while allegedly mishandling university funds. The protests, coupled with increasing pressure from faculty, prompted the Board to take action.
The incoming leadership will face immediate challenges, including stabilizing the university’s finances and addressing the grievances that fueled the staff protests. The Board has also mandated comprehensive audits to uncover the full scope of the financial issues and ensure accountability for past practices.
University employees have cautiously welcomed the leadership change, expressing hope that the new administration will prioritize transparency and staff welfare. Many are optimistic that the Board’s actions signal a commitment to addressing longstanding problems and restoring the institution’s reputation.
