Paynesville, Liberia – After years of contention surrounding the administration of the Zenna Hill Estate, a major breakthrough has been achieved. Anthony T. Cole, former land administrator of the estate owned by the late William Zenna, officially handed over all recovered legal documents to the family and beneficiaries during a formal ceremony in Paynesville. The estate encompasses approximately 86 acres along GSA Road.
Officials Commended for Support
During the handover, Cole expressed gratitude to key Liberian officials, including the President, the Chief Justice, and the Director of the Liberian National Police, for supporting his efforts to retrieve the estate’s critical documents. “Their leadership and commitment have been instrumental in ensuring that justice is served and the wishes of the deceased are respected,” Cole said.
Key Documents Presented
Among the documents presented were the Mother Deed for the estate, a cartographic map detailing property boundaries, Stanley Zeaclon’s 18-acre deed, and confirmations from the Liberian Land Authority (LLA) and the probate court. These documents are intended to clarify ownership, safeguard the estate’s administration, and protect the rights of family members and beneficiaries.
Beneficiaries with legitimate claims include:
Ellen Scarborough – 30 acres
Winston Roymod Howard – 40 acres
Milton & Eva G. Boxton – 17.2 acres (across the street)
King Gray – 134 acres
William Zenna – 86.5 acres
Challenges During Document Retrieval
Cole recounted the difficulties faced during the process, including accusations from local residents and obstruction of official investigations. He noted that the LLA had been paid $1,500 USD for an investigative survey that was never conducted, and he has yet to receive a refund, which remains pending through his legal representative. Cole also revealed that his property had been burned down in protest, a matter currently before the Paynesville Magisterial Court.
Family Expresses Gratitude
Receiving the documents on behalf of the Zenna family were Memmah Zinnah, daughter of the deceased, and Momo K. Cooper Sr., nephew of the late William Zenna. Cooper praised Cole for his resilience and dedication, stating, “What you have done for us, only God will pay you. If not for you, we would have lost our inheritance.” He encouraged Cole to continue supporting the family as they prepare to remove illegal occupants from the estate.
Memmah Zinnah recounted the struggles of their late father, who had been frustrated over the illegal sale of portions of his property by relatives. “Our father died in front of someone’s shop out of frustration for this same land business,” she said, visibly emotional. She added that the lack of control over their inheritance had contributed to challenging living conditions, including poverty. “We truly appreciate his efforts. We haven’t met our obligations in the agreement, yet he’s turning over our documents,” she said.
Compliance with Law Urged
Cole emphasized that the estate’s rightful owners must comply with statutory law to prevent future disputes. “Once you are in compliance with the law, you are safe,” he said, urging the family to avoid violence or disorderly conduct and to respect judicial processes.
