A Liberian community radio journalist, Alex Yormie has been reportedly abducted in Nimba County after reporting on a government directive suspending activities of traditional poro and sande societies.

Journalist Yormie who works for Radio Lar-Wehyi in Tappita, was taken on the evening of June 30 by men believed to be members of the Poro Society.

The men reportedly acted on orders from Melvin Duo, General Culture Coordinator of Nimba County. Duo admitted Yormie was taken for questioning after allegedly violating local tradition by broadcasting about the secret society.

Duo denied claims of violence or forced initiation, but said Yormie is being held at the local Poro Society’s headquarters and would be released to his family on Tuesday.

The Press Union of Liberia (PUL) condemned the abduction and called for Yormie’s immediate and unconditional release.

The union urged the Ministries of Internal Affairs and Information to protect journalists from threats and unlawful actions.

Sande and Poro societies are powerful secret societies Liberia. Poro is the men’s society focused on initiation and social control, while Sande is its female counterpart, also focused on initiation and women’s affairs. Both societies play significant roles in social, political, and religious life, often wielding considerable influence within their communities.