Freetown, Sierra Leone – February 9, 2026: The nation is in shock and mourning following the tragic killing of Mrs. Valentina Bisodun Catherine Kamanda (née Nicol), a respected matron and lecturer at the Faculty of Nursing, College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences (COMAHS), University of Sierra Leone. The incident, which occurred on Sunday night at her residence in Goderich, Freetown, has sparked public outrage and intensified calls for justice and accountability.
According to preliminary reports, Mrs. Kamanda was attacked by unknown assailants and fatally wounded. Her child, who was also assaulted during the attack, sustained serious injuries and is currently hospitalised. Authorities have yet to release a detailed official statement, but the Sierra Leone Police have confirmed that investigations are underway.
Mrs. Kamanda was widely admired for her professional dedication and her strong Christian faith. As an active member of Zion Praise Tabernacle Church, she was described as a pillar of her community. Tributes have poured in from colleagues, students, and church members, with many recalling her compassion, discipline, and integrity.
Civil society groups, the Christian community, and concerned citizens have urged the government of President Julius Maada Bio and Inspector General of Police William Fayia Sellu to ensure swift and transparent action. They stressed that justice must be served and security strengthened to protect families across the country.
The Sierra Leone Nurses Association and academic circles have also expressed grief, describing her death as a devastating loss to the profession and the nation.
As investigations continue, the killing of Mrs. Kamanda stands as a painful reminder of the urgent need to confront violent crime, restore public confidence in security institutions, and honour the memory of a woman whose life was devoted to service, education, and faith.
Source: Calabash