Ernest Bai Koroma Returns to Sierra Leone After 2 Years

Ernest Bai Koroma, the former President of Sierra Leone, returned to Freetown after spending approximately two and a half years in Nigeria. His departure was made possible by the discontinuation of treason charges that had prevented him from returning since early 2024.

Goodluck Jonathan, a former Nigerian president, confirmed Koroma's departure on social media, stating he personally saw him off and expressed gratitude for the support provided during Koroma's time in Nigeria. Koroma had left Sierra Leone in January 2024 after a high court allowed him to travel abroad despite facing treason charges related to an alleged coup attempt in November 2023, which involved gunmen attacking military barracks and a prison, resulting in over 20 deaths and the release of around 2,200 inmates.

Koroma denied any involvement, and his lawyers claimed the charges were politically motivated. In July, Sierra Leone's Attorney-General Alpha Sasay announced that all criminal proceedings against Koroma had been formally discontinued.