The sudden and unexpected death of Cletus Noah, former Chief of Office Staff to ex-Finance Minister Samuel D. Tweah, on May 4, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Hospital in Monrovia, Liberia, has sent shockwaves through the nation. His passing, which triggered an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the political spectrum, also became the subject of public speculation and allegations of foul play, further complicating the grieving process for his family and friends. Now, seeking closure and peace, Noah’s family has formally requested to proceed with burial arrangements without an autopsy, effectively halting further investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
The family’s decision, communicated through an official letter to the Liberia National Police (LNP), emphasizes their satisfaction with the medical findings provided by St. Joseph’s Catholic Hospital. Signed by Noah’s widow, Mrs. Linda K. Sumo-Noah, his sister, Mrs. Mary N. Weah, and his cousin, Mr. Augustine K. Maimie, the letter unequivocally states their desire to lay their loved one to rest and refrain from pursuing further inquiries. This decision, acknowledged by the LNP on May 20, 2025, comes amidst growing public scrutiny and unsubstantiated allegations swirling around the cause of Noah’s death.
The situation took a more complex turn when Lenn Eugene Nagbe, former Chief of Office Staff to ex-President George M. Weah, formally requested a preliminary police investigation into Noah’s death. Nagbe’s request, submitted to Police Inspector General Col. Gregory Coleman on May 8, 2025, was prompted by public accusations implicating him in Noah’s passing. These allegations, according to Nagbe, stemmed from a WhatsApp message he received from the deceased’s brother, Mr. Tozo, who not only accused Nagbe but also former Minister Tweah and unnamed “henchmen” of involvement in Noah’s death.
Nagbe’s letter to the police detailed the alarming nature of the accusations, including a direct threat from Mr. Tozo warning him to “wait for the burial” and stating he was “coming for him.” Concerned for his reputation, safety, and security, Nagbe provided screenshots and a transcript of the WhatsApp exchange as evidence, urging the police to contact Mr. Tozo to ascertain the source and veracity of the allegations. Nagbe, who also previously served as Commissioner General of the Liberia Maritime Authority, pledged his full cooperation with any police inquiries.
The family’s decision to forgo an autopsy and proceed with burial presents a delicate challenge for the Liberia National Police. While respecting the family’s wishes for closure and their right to mourn in peace, the LNP must also address the lingering public concerns and allegations surrounding Noah’s death. Balancing these competing demands requires a sensitive and measured approach, ensuring a respectful resolution to this tragic event while maintaining public trust. The police must now decide how to proceed in light of the family’s decision and Nagbe’s request for an investigation, potentially leaving some questions unanswered despite the family’s pursuit of closure.
The passing of Cletus Noah has undoubtedly left a void in Liberia’s political and professional landscape. He was a respected figure, and his sudden death has brought immense grief to those who knew him. While the circumstances surrounding his death remain a source of public speculation, his family’s desire to proceed with burial signals their need for closure and a peaceful farewell to their beloved husband, son, and cousin. As the nation mourns the loss of Cletus Noah, the focus shifts to respecting the family’s wishes while acknowledging the public’s right to know in a situation marked by unsubstantiated accusations and a desire for closure.
