Published: July 7, 2025
MONROVIA- The Women's NGO Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL) is demanding a swift, transparent, and impartial investigation into the death of 29-year-old Kadiatu Dioh, who reportedly endured years of domestic abuse before succumbing to fatal injuries allegedly inflicted by her husband and another woman believed to be his girlfriend.
In a statement issued over the weekend, WONGOSOL called Kadiatu's death a grim reminder of Liberia's deepening crisis of gender-based violence and urged authorities to ensure full legal accountability.
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Founded in 1998, WONGOSOL is one of Liberia's leading national coalitions advocating for women's rights, gender justice, and policy reform. The organization works to amplify the voices of women and promote their full participation in peacebuilding, governance, and national development.
Tragedy in Johnsonville
According to WONGOSOL, the fatal incident occurred in Johnsonville Township, where witnesses say Kadiatu was violently attacked and struck in the head with a wooden plank. She was rushed to the John F. Kennedy Medical Center in Monrovia and later died from internal brain bleeding.
Despite multiple eyewitness accounts, the organization expressed serious concern over what it described as a "deeply troubling delay" in police action and investigation.
Public Outcry Over Police Inaction
"The circumstances surrounding Kadiatu's death demand urgent action," said Madam Esther S. D. Yango, Executive Director of WONGOSOL. "We are heartbroken and outraged by this heinous act of violence. Justice must not be delayed or denied."
WONGOSOL condemned the alleged attack as emblematic of the silent suffering many Liberian women face in abusive relationships--often without access to legal protection, shelter, or consistent state support.
Family Speaks Out
The organization revealed that Kadiatu's family, particularly her sister Hawa Abigail Neewon, has publicly detailed the years of abuse Kadiatu endured at the hands of her husband, Papie Lema Dioh.
"Despite past court interventions and family mediation, the abuse reportedly continued unchecked, eventually leading to her death," WONGOSOL stated.
The family has also raised concerns over the Liberia National Police's handling of the case, alleging that officers suggested proceeding with burial arrangements while the investigation remains incomplete.
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Demands for Justice and Protection
WONGOSOL is calling on the Liberia National Police, the Ministry of Justice, and JFK Medical Center to immediately release Kadiatu's official autopsy and death report to her family.
"We demand the immediate arrest and prosecution of all individuals involved in this assault," the organization stated. "There must be no delay in bringing justice to Kadiatu and her family."
The group is also calling for immediate protection and psychosocial support for Kadiatu's surviving child and close relatives.
A Call for Solidarity
WONGOSOL has appealed to civil society groups, human rights institutions, international partners, and the Liberian public to stand with Kadiatu's family and all victims of gender-based violence.
"Her life must be honored with justice. Her death must not be buried in silence," the statement read.
Executive Director Yango added, "Kadiatu's life mattered. Though her voice has been silenced, ours will not. We will continue to demand justice--not just for her, but for every woman suffering in silence."
