As Public Outrage Erupts: Education Ministry Closes House of Prayer Institute Due to Offensive Video

MONROVIA, LIBERIA: The Ministry of Education (MoE) has ordered the temporary closure of the House of Prayer Institute located in the Agape Community, Brewerville Educational District (Right Bank 2).

This decision follows an investigation prompted by a widely circulated video that caused national outrage and condemnation from several prominent public figures, including the Liberian Afro-pop star Korte Dorbor Bazzie, known by his stage name Kobazzie.

The video depicted comedian LIB Attention performing in front of schoolchildren in a manner that many deemed indecent and inappropriate. This has led to strong criticism from parents, child protection advocates, and cultural commentators.

Kobazzie was one of the first prominent voices to publicly denounce both the entertainer and the school's administration. He accused them of exposing children to inappropriate content and failing in their duty of care.

In response to the public backlash, the Ministry launched a formal investigation, which revealed multiple serious violations of the Education Reform Act and Ministry regulations.

According to the Ministry, the House of Prayer Institute has been operating illegally without a valid Operational Permit from the Ministry of Education since its establishment in 2019, including its reopening in 2025.

The investigation revealed that the institution was not registered in the official district education database, and the District Education Office had no prior knowledge of the school's existence or operations. As a result, the institution was entirely outside the Ministry’s regulatory oversight. Additionally, findings indicated that the school’s administrators did not meet the minimum professional qualification standards required by the Ministry.

An assessment of the school facility also determined that it was not conducive to the levels of education being offered. Furthermore, the school failed to provide essential regulatory documents, including evidence of child safeguarding and protection mechanisms.

The Ministry stated that these systemic failures were worsened by the school's decision to invite an entertainer whose public image and performance—highlighted in a viral video—were considered inappropriate for a school setting and inconsistent with acceptable standards for child-centered activities.

In response to the incident, before the Ministry's intervention, Kobazzie described the act as reckless and dangerous. He emphasized that both entertainers and schools share a responsibility to protect children from harmful influences.

Kobazzie's comments reflected the growing concerns among parents in Brewerville, many of whom accused the school of neglecting its duty to maintain a safe and morally sound learning environment.

In response to the findings of the investigation, the Ministry of Education has ordered the immediate temporary closure of the House of Prayer Institute. This closure will remain in effect until the school complies fully with all legal, administrative, and safeguarding requirements necessary to obtain a School Operational Permit.

Additionally, the school’s proprietor will face fines for operating without proper authorization, in accordance with Ministry regulations.

The Ministry has also indicated that the case is under review for a possible referral to the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, in line with national child protection frameworks.

The Ministry of Education, through the relevant District Education Office, will communicate with parents and guardians of affected students to outline the next steps and ensure arrangements are made for their children to continue their education in safe and accredited institutions.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the safety, dignity, and well-being of all learners, warning that schools operating outside the law will be held accountable. Parents are also encouraged to verify the accreditation status of schools before enrolling their children.