KOROMA HEADS BACK TO SIERRA LEONE AFTER TREASON PROCEEDINGS END

Former Sierra Leone President Ernest Bai Koroma has left Nigeria and returned to his home country after spending more than two years in the country following treason charges brought against him over the November 2023 unrest in Freetown. Koroma’s departure came after Sierra Leone discontinued the criminal proceedings against him, clearing the way for the former leader to return home. He was seen off in Nigeria by former President Goodluck Jonathan, who described Koroma as a dear friend and brother.

Koroma relocated to Nigeria in January 2024 after being charged with treason and other offences in connection with the failed coup attempt in Sierra Leone. He had initially travelled to Nigeria for medical treatment after receiving permission from the Sierra Leonean judicial authorities, but remained in the country for more than two years as diplomatic engagements continued over his legal situation. The former president, who governed Sierra Leone from 2007 to 2018, denied involvement in the alleged coup attempt.

The Sierra Leonean authorities discontinued the criminal proceedings against Koroma in July 2026, with the Attorney-General’s office confirming that the case was no longer before the court. The development subsequently opened the way for him to return to Sierra Leone, with Vice President Mohamed Jalloh announcing that Koroma would come home as part of efforts to promote peace and national cohesion. His return followed a prolonged period of regional diplomatic engagement involving Nigeria, the Economic Community of West African States and Sierra Leonean authorities.

Nigeria’s role in facilitating the former president’s return was also highlighted by Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, who said she accompanied Koroma to Freetown on the instruction of President Bola Tinubu. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo also joined the delegation. The minister said the process represented the conclusion of a regional confidence-building effort aimed at strengthening political understanding and stability in Sierra Leone, while describing Koroma’s conduct during his stay in Nigeria as restrained and statesmanlike.

After arriving back in Sierra Leone, Koroma indicated that he was ready to contribute to consultations and efforts aimed at strengthening peace and reconciliation in the country. Jonathan, who had earlier announced Koroma’s departure, expressed hope that his return would bring renewed optimism for the former president, his family and the people of Sierra Leone. Koroma’s homecoming therefore marks the end of more than two years away from his country and another significant step in efforts to ease political tensions surrounding the 2023 unrest.