On Wednesday February 25, 2026In Freetown, leading flagbearer aspirant for the All People’s Congress (APC), Dr. Ibrahim Bangura, shed light on the recent cross-border incidents involving the Guinean military and personnel from the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) in Kaliyereh Village, Falaba, including confrontations in the contested area of Yenga.
Dr. Ibrahim Bangura has issued a press statement urging a diplomatic approach to resolve escalating tensions.
Dr. Bangura expressed deep concern over reports of clashes and the apprehension of Sierra Leonean military personnel, emphasizing that the situation demands immediate attention from all stakeholders involved.
“I stand firmly with the State and the brave men and women of our Armed Forces, who tirelessly defend our territorial integrity,” he stated. “The sovereignty of Sierra Leone is sacred and non-negotiable. It is imperative that our borders are respected and our national dignity upheld.”
As a candidate for the All People’s Congress (APC), Dr. Bangura highlighted the importance of unity during this critical moment. He reiterated his commitment to collaborating with his party, the Government of Sierra Leone, and relevant stakeholders to address the emerging crisis decisively and peacefully, ensuring that actions taken are in the best interest of the nation.
In his statement, Dr. Bangura also reminded the Government of Guinea of the profound historical connections between the two nations, citing shared cultural ties and a legacy of cooperation that dates back, years. He recalled that during Sierra Leone’s civil war, Guinea opened its doors to thousands of Sierra Leoneans seeking refuge and support—a gesture that should be honored and reflected in current relations.
“The incidents along our shared border jeopardize decades of regional cooperation and mutual trust,” he warned, adding his voice to those advocating for an end to hostilities. Dr. Bangura urged Guinean authorities to take immediate action to de-escalate tensions, respect existing boundaries, and engage in constructive dialogue through diplomatic and bilateral channels.
He emphasized that any pursuit of peace must be grounded in mutual respect and adherence to established principles, a sentiment that resonates strongly in the context of sustaining regional stability.
To the citizens of Sierra Leone, Dr. Bangura appealed for calm, unity, and unwavering support for national institutions.
“Let us stand together as we seek a just and peaceful resolution to this crisis,” he declared. “It is our collective responsibility to promote national interests and uphold the dignity of our Republic.”
The call for diplomacy and understanding reflects a broader desire among Sierra Leoneans for a peaceful resolution to the border tensions that threaten to disturb the delicate balance of regional relations. As conversations continue, there is hope that both nations can navigate these challenges with respect and cooperation, ensuring that the legacies of solidarity and friendship endure in the face of adversity.
PRESS STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
A CALL FOR UNITY, STRATEGIC AND PEACEFUL RESOLUTION OF BORDER DISPUTE
Freetown -25th February, 2026
I am deeply concerned about the recent cross-border incidents involving the Guinean military and personnel of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) in Falaba, including developments in Yenga. Reports of confrontations and the capture of Sierra Leonean military personnel are worrying and require urgent attention.
I stand strongly with the State and the men and women of our Armed Forces who defend our territorial integrity with professionalism and courage. The sovereignty of Sierra Leone is sacred and non-negotiable. Our borders must be respected, and our national dignity must be upheld.
At this critical moment, unity is vital on this significant national security matter. As a flagbearer candidate of the All Peoples Congress (APC), I am fully committed to working with my party, the Government of Sierra Leone, and all relevant stakeholders to ensure this issue is addressed decisively, strategically, and peacefully in the highest national interest.
At the same time, I would like to remind the Government of the Republic of Guinea of the profound historical ties that connect our two nations. Our people share culture, kinship, and a long history of cooperation. During Sierra Leone’s civil war, Guinea provided refuge and support to thousands of our citizens. That legacy of solidarity should guide our actions today.
Incidents along our shared border, including in Yenga, threaten to undermine decades of regional cooperation and mutual trust. I therefore urge the Guinean authorities to take immediate action to halt any measures that escalate tensions, respect established boundaries, and engage constructively through diplomatic and bilateral channels to resolve all outstanding issues. However, peace must be rooted in mutual respect and adherence to agreed principles.
To my fellow Sierra Leoneans, I call for calm, unity, and support for our institutions. Let us stand together, as we strive for a just and peaceful resolution, and let us promote our national interests and uphold the dignity of our Republic.
Dr. Ibrahim Bangura
Flagbearer Aspirant – All Peoples Congress (APC)
Republic of Sierra Leone
