Treason Case Dropped Ex-Sierra Leone President Koroma Finally Returns Home

Former Sierra Leone President Ernest Bai Koroma has returned to Freetown after spending more than two years in Nigeria following the discontinuation of criminal proceedings against him in his home country.

Koroma departed Nigeria on Sunday after former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan reportedly saw him off ahead of his journey to Sierra Leone.

The former Sierra Leonean leader had been based in Nigeria since January 2024 after travelling to the country for medical treatment. His departure from Sierra Leone came after he was indicted in connection with the November 2023 attacks in Freetown, which led to treason-related allegations and other criminal proceedings against him.

Koroma remained in Nigeria while the legal case continued in Sierra Leone, with efforts reportedly ongoing to resolve the matter and facilitate his eventual return home.

In July 2026, Sierra Leonean authorities discontinued the criminal proceedings against the former president. The Attorney-General’s Office subsequently confirmed that the case was no longer active in court, paving the way for Koroma to return to the country.

Jonathan was among those involved in efforts to facilitate Koroma’s return and was present as the former Sierra Leonean president departed Nigeria.

Koroma served as President of Sierra Leone from 2007 to 2018. His move to Nigeria in 2024 followed approval from Sierra Leonean judicial authorities for him to travel abroad for medical treatment.

His return came after Sierra Leone’s Vice President Mohamed Jalloh announced that Koroma would be returning as part of broader efforts to promote peace and national unity.

Upon arriving in Freetown, Koroma spoke with journalists at a press conference and confirmed his return to Sierra Leone.

The former president also expressed his readiness to participate in consultations and receive advice as he begins his life back in the country following his extended stay in Nigeria.