Sledgehammer Online News

9th May 2025

OCTEA Holding, the parent company of Koidu Limited, has formally communicated its intention to pursue legal action against the First Lady of Sierra Leone, Madam Fatima Bio.

Octea Mining, primarily recognised through its subsidiary Koidu Limited, operates as a diamond mining company in Sierra Leone.

In a letter dated May 6, 2025, addressed to the First Lady, OCTEA Limited detailed its decision to file a lawsuit on grounds of alleged defamation, interference, libel, false accusations, incitement to violence, and attempted blackmail.

The correspondence includes an opportunity for a private settlement, should specific conditions—including a proposed payment of $20 million—be met.

Additionally, the company is considering measures such as asset-freezing orders and seeking international sanctions. The letter states, “If we do not receive a full and satisfactory response confirming your compliance… we reserve our rights to initiate legal and enforcement actions against you.”

According to the letter, OCTEA and Koidu Limited are seeking a payment of $20 million to facilitate the resumption of mining operations, an immediate cease-and-desist order against any further public comments, a public retraction of prior statements, and a written commitment to prevent future interference.

This situation escalated following the First Lady’s public accusations against the company regarding worker treatment and alleged corrupt practices—claims that the company firmly contests as baseless.

Meanwhile, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) issued a statement yesterday, May 8, informing the public about an investigation into Koidu Limited concerning corruption allegations, including tax evasion and other offences.

Some citizens have raised concerns regarding the timing of the ACC’s investigation, given the close connection between First Lady Fatima Bio and Ben Kaifala, the ACC boss.

This has prompted questions regarding whether the ACC’s actions are intended to address potential misconduct or to exert pressure on OCTEA to back down.

It is worth noting that Koidu Limited stands as the last operating diamond-producing mine in Sierra Leone.

The company claims to have made significant contributions to local development, reporting over $173 million in taxes and royalties paid to the government, as well as $15 million allocated for community development programs. They assert that the recent halt in their operations was directly influenced by the First Lady’s actions.

However, this marks a noteworthy moment, as it is going to be the first time a sitting First Lady is facing potential legal action.

Seemingly, should some of the allegations, such as extortion, be substantiated, it could have implications for the reputation of the First Family and the nation as a whole.

The consequences for Sierra Leone’s image and its investment climate remain to be seen as the situation develops.

Up until the time of going to press, there has been no official statement from the Office of the First Lady.