Yaya Sonko, a German-based Gambian migrant activist, has issued a public statement addressing allegations made against him by the Leonian Connection (TGC), a Gambian diaspora organisation.

The Leonian Connection had raised concerns over Sonko’s professional conduct and engagement with Gambian youths in Europe, alleging criminal coercion, extortion, and unauthorised activities.

In response, Sonko described these claims as misleading and defended his record of community-based work.

Mr Sonko’s statement focused on clarifying what he describes as “false self-victimisation” by Ebrima Nelson Badjie, a Gambian figure active in diaspora networks.

According to Sonko, Badjie has presented himself publicly as a victim of bullying, extortion, and character attacks.

Mr Sonko, however, asserts that Badjie has displayed patterns of manipulation, intimidation, and abuse of trust, particularly toward vulnerable youths.

Sonko detailed his acquaintance with Badjie since 2018, noting that Badjie claimed multiple professional credentials, including pilot, medical doctor, and UN-level professional, which were not substantiated by verifiable evidence.

Mr Sonko also criticised Badjie’s public social media content, suggesting that some posts were offensive to Gambians and African migrants and dismissive of sensitive cases involving Gambian nationals in Germany.

Sonko stated that alleged victims approached him and fellow activist Seedy Saidykhan in 2024, sharing accounts of coercion, manipulation, and exploitation.

He emphasised that these accounts include messages and videos reportedly provided by the individuals themselves, and that the matter should be addressed through legal processes.

He further alleged that Badjie directly threatened him via messaging platforms, warning of lawsuits, deportation, and claiming influence in Germany.

Mr Sonko affirmed his commitment to supporting Gambian youths and said no threats would deter him.

Sonko concluded by stressing that the dispute is not about personal conflict but about accountability and the protection of vulnerable youths.

He urged Badjie to return to the Gambia and submit to legal scrutiny if confident in his innocence, stating that “justice does not fear scrutiny.”

Sonko reaffirmed his decade-long record of lawful community work supporting Gambian youths in Europe and at home, emphasising that all matters should be addressed transparently through due legal process.

By Adama Makasuba