University of Liberia Law School Dux Izetta Jones Howe Denounces Fraud Allegations.

Monrovia, Liberia – Izetta Jones Howe, the newly announced Dux of the University of Liberia’s Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law, has vehemently denied allegations of fraud leveled against her by exiled Liberian activist Martin Kollie.

In an interview with KM TV Liberia on Sunday, Howe challenged Kollie to publicly present evidence to substantiate his claims, stressing that she remains confident in her academic record.

She said she is even more than proud of her achievement.

Social Media Allegations

Over the weekend, Kollie took to his official Facebook page to contest the law school’s announcement naming Howe as Dux—an honor bestowed upon the graduating student with the highest academic standing.

In a strongly worded post, he claimed that a leaked dossier of documents suggested alleged fraud, asserting that Howe’s elevation to the top of her class was illegitimate.

He wrote that the student announced as Dux of the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law should not hold the title and claimed a dossier of documents had leaked pointing to alleged fraud. He further stated that the University of Liberia had up to Monday to break its silence.

Howe Calls for Evidence

Responding publicly for the first time, Howe said she is prepared to clear her name and remains unshaken by the accusations.

She noted that they should wait for the evidence on Monday, emphasizing that she can confidently say there is nothing to support the allegation. According to her, the claim was made without due diligence, and she is awaiting the evidence before addressing the matter further.

She expressed disappointment that Kollie chose to go public before contacting her directly, adding that he should have first reached out to ascertain whether the information was true. She described the move as a breach of collegial respect and proper investigative procedure.

Campus Politics and Gender Bias

Howe traced the origin of the controversy to a campus-based student group known as the Noble Second Floor. According to her, members of the group believed they were entitled to lead the class and reacted negatively to her success.

She said they are surprised that despite being president, she was able to excel and emerge as the top of the class.

Howe suggested that her dual role as class president and academic leader unsettled critics who doubted her ability to balance leadership with academic excellence. She also hinted at what she perceives as gender bias, observing that in Liberia women are often not expected to excel, especially those who maintain a low profile on social media.

She added that she does not engage in social media and prefers to focus quietly on self-improvement.

A Decorated Academic Journey

Before entering the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law, Howe had already built a strong academic portfolio.

She earned a Master’s degree in Project Management with Distinction from Coventry University in the United Kingdom during the 2019–2020 academic year, placing in the top tier of her class.

Earlier, she graduated Cum Laude from Cuttington University in Liberia, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Management and a Bachelor of Science in Economics. She has also obtained several professional certificates from institutions in England, the United States, and Liberia.

Currently, she serves as President of the Law Students Association at the law school. Beyond campus, she became the first female President of the Federation of African Law Students, a continental body representing law students across Africa.

Her leadership record dates back to 2011, when she simultaneously served as President of the Graduating Class of Cuttington University and President of the Cuttington University Students Union.

Awaiting Official Response

Kollie is the founder of the Campaigners for Academic Crimes Court, a group known for scrutinizing academic credentials and professional achievements in Liberia. While he describes his work as promoting accountability, critics accuse the group of targeting professionals for political or financial motives.

As of press time, the University of Liberia administration has not issued an official statement regarding the allegations.

Howe, however, remains resolute, stating that she is not afraid and is confident in her academic record.