Former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma has begun his journey home after more than two years in Nigeria, following the discontinuance of criminal proceedings against him.
Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan disclosed this on Sunday, September 6, 2026, after seeing Koroma off.
Jonathan said he and others had quietly worked to promote dialogue with Sierra Leonean authorities and facilitate Koroma’s safe and dignified return. He described Nigeria as Koroma’s “home away from home” during his stay.
Koroma, who ruled Sierra Leone from 2007 to 2018, travelled to Nigeria on January 19, 2024, after a High Court in Freetown granted him permission to seek medical treatment abroad.
His departure followed treason and other charges over the November 26, 2023 attacks on military and security facilities in Freetown. Koroma denied involvement in what authorities described as a failed coup attempt.
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The attacks left more than 20 people dead and enabled about 2,200 prisoners to escape before security forces regained control.
Koroma remained in Nigeria beyond his initial three-month medical leave while the case and regional diplomatic efforts continued.
Sierra Leonean authorities discontinued the proceedings in July 2026, clearing the immediate legal hurdle to his return. The action was a discontinuance, not a judicial acquittal.
Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh announced on September 4 that Koroma would return during the weekend in the interest of peace and national cohesion.
Koroma had briefly returned to Sierra Leone in July for an ECOWAS summit at the invitation of President Julius Maada Bio before traveling back to Nigeria.
Jonathan wished him a safe journey, expressing hope that his return would advance reconciliation as Sierra Leone looks ahead to the 2028 general elections.