Freetown, Sierra Leone – October 2025: The High Court of Sierra Leone has issued a series of orders and injunctions in a paternity confirmation case involving Mohamed Momoh-Jah Stevens and Edwina Hawa Jamiru. The matter, heard before Hon. Mr. Justice A.K. Musa in the Family and Probate Division, centers on the biological parentage of a minor child born on April 10, 2025.
The plaintiff, Mr. Stevens, filed an originating summons on May 2, 2025, requesting the court to order a DNA test to determine whether he is the biological father of the child, Eden Jamiru, allegedly born from a relationship with the defendant, Ms. Jamiru.
Key Orders Sought by the Plaintiff:
- A directive for both the defendant and the child to submit DNA samples for testing.
- If paternity is confirmed, an order for Mr. Stevens to assume financial responsibility for the child’s maintenance until she reaches 18 years of age. Payments would be made into an interest-bearing account operated by the defendant, in accordance with Sierra Leone’s child support laws.
Injunctions Issued: The plaintiff also sought and was granted multiple injunctions aimed at protecting his privacy and reputation during the proceedings:
- Interlocutory and permanent injunctions restraining the defendant and her associates from publishing or disseminating any details of the case through electronic, print, oral, or social media.
- Interim injunctions preventing the defendant from taking any actions that could harm the plaintiff’s character or dignity.
- Restraining orders barring the defendant from approaching or loitering near the plaintiff’s residence, workplace, or family home.
- Ex parte injunction valid for seven days, reinforcing the restrictions on public disclosure of the case details.
The case, brought under Section 83 of the Child Rights Act No. 7 of 2007, underscores the growing use of DNA testing in family law proceedings.
Further hearings are expected as the DNA results and financial arrangements are reviewed.