Former Sierra Leone President Ernest Bai Koroma is back home after more than two years in Nigeria, following the decision by authorities to drop treason charges linked to an alleged coup attempt.
Koroma arrived in Freetown on Sunday, receiving a warm welcome from government officials and supporters of his opposition All People’s Congress (APC).
The former president traveled to Nigeria in 2024 after being charged with treason and other offences over a deadly military uprising in November 2023. He had initially been granted permission to stay in Nigeria for just three months for medical treatment but remained there for more than two years.
On his return, Koroma was accompanied by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo and Nigerian Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu. Sierra Leone’s Foreign Minister Mohamed Rahman Swarray and APC officials were also present to receive him.
“Today I have come back home and I’m happy,” Koroma told journalists with a smile.
Why Was Koroma Charged?
The case against Koroma dates back to November 2023, when armed attackers stormed a military armory, two barracks, two prisons and two police stations. The attacks triggered fierce clashes with security forces and left 21 people dead.
Sierra Leonean authorities described the incident as an attempted coup. Several soldiers and Koroma’s former bodyguard were later convicted by a military court and sentenced to between 50 and 100 years in prison.
Although Koroma was accused of involvement, he has now been cleared of the charges. Sierra Leone’s Justice Ministry announced in July that the treason case had been dropped but did not provide a reason.
Koroma’s Return Comes Ahead of 2028 Elections
Koroma’s homecoming is attracting attention because it comes ahead of Sierra Leone’s 2028 presidential elections.
The former leader governed the country from 2007 to 2018 and remains an influential figure within the APC, the country’s main opposition party.
His return could therefore have political significance as parties begin positioning themselves for the next presidential contest.
Koroma had briefly visited Sierra Leone in July after the charges were dropped, attending an ECOWAS summit at the invitation of President Julius Maada Bio.
Now back home permanently, the former president’s next moves are likely to attract considerable attention as Sierra Leone prepares for another major political season.#newsafro_
