Former Sierra Leone President Ernest Bai Koroma, on Sunday, returned to his country after spending more than two years in Nigeria, following the withdrawal of criminal proceedings against him.
Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan was in company with Koroma as he departed Nigeria for Sierra Leone.
Jonathan announced Koroma’s departure in a post on his X handle, describing the former Sierra Leonean leader as his “dear friend and brother”.
“This morning, I had the pleasure of seeing off my dear friend and brother, His Excellency President Ernest Bai Koroma, as he begins his journey home to Sierra Leone,” Jonathan said.
The former Nigerian president explained that Nigeria had served as Koroma’s “home away from home” for over two years, during which the country provided him with friendship, support and solidarity.
Jonathan also revealed that efforts were made behind the scenes to facilitate Koroma’s return by encouraging discussions with the Sierra Leonean authorities.
Jonathan said, “Working quietly with others, we encouraged dialogue and engagement with the Sierra Leonean authorities to help create the conditions for his safe and dignified return.
“As we say farewell today, I am particularly happy that he is returning home to Freetown.
“President Koroma, I wish you a safe journey, peace of mind and every success in this new chapter. May your return be a moment of renewed hope and reconciliation for you, your family and the people of Sierra Leone.
“Safe travels, my brother. Sierra Leone welcomes you home.”
Koroma governed Sierra Leone between 2007 and 2018 before leaving the country for Nigeria in January 2024.
His departure followed allegations of treason and other offences connected to attacks that occurred in Freetown in November 2023.
The Sierra Leonean government subsequently discontinued the criminal case against the former president in July 2026.
The country’s Attorney-General’s office confirmed that the case was no longer before the court, effectively clearing the way for Koroma to return home.
Koroma had initially travelled to Nigeria after obtaining approval from Sierra Leonean judicial authorities to receive medical treatment. However, he remained in Nigeria for more than two years.
His return followed an announcement by Sierra Leone’s Vice President Mohamed Jalloh on Friday that Koroma would be heading back to the country as part of efforts to promote peace and national cohesion.
Following his arrival in Sierra Leone, Koroma addressed journalists at a press conference and said he was “back home.”
The former president also indicated that he remained willing to participate in consultations and receive advice as the country moves forward.
