MONROVIA – Liberia Football Association (LFA) President Mustapha Raji says he is open to a full investigation by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) into the association’s financial activities, as pressure mounts over allegations of mismanagement.
Raji made the remarks during a media engagement with sports journalists on Wednesday, May 21, at the LFA headquarters in Monrovia. When asked whether he was aware of a pending LACC probe into the LFA’s finances, Raji said he had not received official word of an investigation but would welcome one.
“I will welcome the LACC to LFA to investigate us from the day I took over as president,” Raji stated.
His comments follow a formal petition filed in April 2025 by the Students Unification Party (SUP) at the University of Liberia, which called on the LACC to examine alleged financial irregularities and corruption within the LFA. The students specifically accused Raji of large-scale financial misconduct since assuming office in 2018.
Transparency Promised, But Questions Remain
At the Wednesday press briefing, Raji reiterated his commitment to transparency and accountability, stating that any investigation would cover the entire duration of his leadership and even minor transactions.
“I want the folder of the FA to be opened because some of you worked here, and we will conduct an investigation covering the time FA,” he said.
While no formal charges have been brought against Raji, public scrutiny has intensified, particularly following reports of inconsistencies between his public claims and financial records.
In February, an investigation by The Liberian Investigator raised concerns about Raji’s financial declarations. The report highlighted a discrepancy between his stated financial hardship and the substantial benefits he receives from his roles in both the LFA and international football bodies.
From 2018 to 2023, Raji repeatedly told journalists he was serving the game without compensation.
“I am not rich; I am not poor. The LFA can’t pay me, and I came to serve football,” he said on numerous occasions.
But during a press conference in July 2024, Raji acknowledged receiving a monthly US$150 recharge card from Orange Liberia, a benefit extended to all LFA Executive Committee members. He also admitted struggling to afford fuel for his vehicle.
Financial Reality Contradicts Public Statements
Contrary to his earlier claims, Raji receives an annual stipend of US$25,000 from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in his role as LFA President. Additionally, he earns US$80,000 per year as a CAF Executive Committee member—an amount that has reportedly increased in recent months.
Further scrutiny revealed that Raji benefits from travel and accommodation coverage for CAF and FIFA events, which analysts say places him among Liberia’s most well-compensated sports administrators. In 2022, the LFA also purchased a vehicle valued at US$42,287.50 for his official use.
These revelations have sparked renewed calls for oversight and accountability in the governance of Liberian football.
No Official Probe Yet
As of press time, the LACC has not publicly confirmed whether an official investigation into the LFA’s finances is underway. However, sources within the Commission say the SUP petition is under review.
Raji, who is serving his second term as LFA President, maintains that all financial transactions under his leadership have been documented and available for audit.
While some observers believe the recent allegations are politically motivated, others argue that the discrepancies warrant independent verification and a transparent review of how donor and football development funds are managed.
Discussion about this post