Bo, Sierra Leone – Sierra Leonean rapper Alhaji Amadu Bah, widely known by his stage name LAJ (also called Boss LAJ or King Boss LAJ), appeared before the Bo Magistrate Court today in connection with allegations of using insulting and abusive language. The court denied bail, and the matter was adjourned to April 21, 2026, for further hearing.
The case centers on claims that LAJ made derogatory and insulting remarks directed at Thomas Karimu Baio, the Mayor of Kenema City. Reports indicate the alleged incident occurred during a stage performance in Bo, where LAJ reportedly used offensive language toward the mayor. Mayor Baio was present in court during proceedings.
LAJ, along with co-accused Ibrahim Koroma (also known as Prezo Koroma), faces charges that include elements of cyberbullying, defamation, and insulting conduct under Sierra Leone’s Cyber Security and Crime Act 2021 and the Public Order Act 1965. The pair were previously remanded in custody at the Bo Correctional Centre following earlier appearances, with the court repeatedly declining bail requests.
This is not LAJ’s first encounter with the law. The artist, a prominent and often controversial figure in Sierra Leone’s hip-hop scene since the early 2000s, has faced previous legal issues, including a notable 2021 case involving alleged abusive language toward journalist Asmaa James during a Facebook Live session. He was also imprisoned in prior years before being released from Pademba Road Maximum Security Prison in Freetown in January 2024.
Supporters of the “Godfather of Sierra Leonean music” have gathered outside the court, expressing concern over the remand and closely monitoring developments. LAJ’s lawyer has previously explained the denial of bail, though specific reasons cited in today’s proceedings were not immediately detailed in public reports.
The case has drawn significant attention on social media and among Sierra Leone’s entertainment community, highlighting ongoing tensions between public figures, artists, and local authorities regarding speech and performance content.
The next hearing on April 21, 2026, is expected to address further evidence and arguments as the matter proceeds in Bo Magistrate Court No. 1 or 2.
