Sierra Leone: Ex-Sierra Leone President Returns Home From Nigeria After Treason Case Discontinued

What the report says

Former Sierra Leone President Ernest Bai Koroma has returned to Freetown from Nigeria after Sierra Leone discontinued criminal proceedings against him, according to Premium Times, which was distributed by AllAfrica. The report says Koroma left Nigeria on Sunday after spending more than two years there, and was welcomed by Nigerian officials before his departure. Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan said he helped facilitate a quiet process of dialogue that supported Koroma’s safe return.

Koroma had gone to Nigeria in January 2024 after a Sierra Leone court allowed him to travel for medical reasons while he was facing treason charges. He had been indicted over his alleged role in a failed 2023 military attempt to overthrow President Julius Maada Bio’s government. Koroma denied involvement, and his lawyers described the case as politically motivated.

Sierra Leone’s Attorney-General, Alpha Sasay, said in a public notice in July that the case had been discontinued and removed from the court docket, and that Koroma’s bail conditions ended immediately. The notice did not explain the reason for ending the proceedings. The case had drawn attention because it came amid tensions following Sierra Leone’s disputed 2023 election and the broader security concerns raised by the failed coup attempt.