One Gibi Bah, who brought a civil suit against Yaya Nyassi, the alkalo of Duwassu village, testified before Justice Ebrima Jaiteh yesterday, alleging that he was influenced by village elders to give land to former President Yahya Jammeh.

Bah explained that the land, originally owned by his father Alhajie Yerro Bah, was used for agriculture. After his father’s passing, his uncle Pateh Bah continued using the land. However, villagers expressed interest in the land after his uncle’s death, leading to a meeting at the chief’s residence in Sohm village.

During the meeting, elders suggested giving part of the land to Jammeh for development. The land was divided into three parts, with one part each for the villagers and Bah, and the third part for Jammeh. Bah claimed he was pressured to sign the title deeds, and the portion given to Jammeh reportedly had over 3600 cashew trees.

Bah stated, “Who am I to say no? Until today, the original deed of the portion that they gave to Yahya Jammeh is still with me.” The case continues as Bah seeks to reclaim the land he says was unfairly taken from him under pressure.