Published: July 4, 2025
Gbarnga, Bong County — Eugene L. Fahngon, director general of the Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS), has ordered the immediate removal of Voice of Bong radio station from the state broadcaster’s compound in Gbarnga, Bong County.
During an unannounced visit to the facility on Thursday, Fahngon warned that LBS would take unspecified action to remove the station’s equipment if the directive is not followed. He said the building, owned by LBS, must be vacated so the institution can reclaim and operate from its own property.
“Mr. Marvin Cole seems not to understand that we want to use this facility,” Fahngon said. “His presence here stems from a time when he wielded influence and used this station to promote the previous government. But that era is over under the Boakai administration. Our equipment has arrived, and we are ready to use our compound.”
Fahngon said LBS contacted Rep. Josiah Marvin Cole, founder and CEO of Voice of Bong, about a year ago to request the turnover of the property. However, he said there has been no compliance, prompting LBS to escalate the matter.
“I contacted Rep. Cole about a year and a half ago and told him it’s unacceptable to occupy an LBS facility without formal arrangements or a contract,” Fahngon said. “He has refused to relocate his station.”
The compound—once used by LBS—was abandoned for nearly two decades due to government neglect. Over time, it became overgrown and reportedly served as a haven for drug users and a hotspot for crime. Cole later stepped in to rehabilitate the property, transforming it into a community radio station that now serves listeners in Bong County and surrounding areas.
Despite Cole’s investment in restoring the compound, LBS has criticized his actions, arguing that he acted without legal or formal approval. Fahngon made clear that the broadcaster has no intention of reimbursing Cole for the renovations.
“We will not pay back his money,” Fahngon said.
The directive has sparked backlash from some local residents and political observers, who describe the move as politically motivated. Critics argue the order is an attempt to silence Voice of Bong, which has been vocal in its criticism of the Boakai administration.
The situation has heightened political tensions in Bong County, where a long-standing rivalry exists between Voice of Bong and Premier FM, a station reportedly aligned with Sen. Prince Moye. The feud is widely believed to stem from competing political interests.
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