Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan on Sunday bade farewell to former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma as he returned to his home country after criminal proceedings against him were discontinued.
Jonathan disclosed this in a post on his X account, describing Koroma as his “dear friend and brother” and expressing delight over his return to Freetown after more than two years in Nigeria.
“This morning, I had the pleasure of seeing off my dear friend and brother, His Excellency President Ernest Bai Koroma, as he begins his journey home to Sierra Leone,” Jonathan said.
He noted that Nigeria had served as Koroma’s “home away from home” during his stay, adding that he was pleased the country was able to offer him friendship, support and solidarity throughout the period.
Jonathan said he had worked quietly with others to encourage dialogue and engagement with Sierra Leonean authorities to create conditions for Koroma’s safe and dignified return.
“Working quietly with others, we encouraged dialogue and engagement with the Sierra Leonean authorities to help create the conditions for his safe and dignified return,” he stated.
“As we say farewell today, I am particularly happy that he is returning home to Freetown.”
The former Nigerian leader wished Koroma peace of mind and success as he begins what he described as a new chapter, expressing hope that his return would promote reconciliation and renewed hope in Sierra Leone.
“President Koroma, I wish you a safe journey, peace of mind and every success in this new chapter. May your return be a moment of renewed hope and reconciliation for you, your family and the people of Sierra Leone,” Jonathan added.
Koroma, who served as Sierra Leone’s president from 2007 to 2018, travelled to Nigeria in January 2024 after he was charged with treason and other offences linked to the November 2023 attacks in Freetown.
He had initially received permission from judicial authorities in Sierra Leone to travel to Nigeria for medical treatment but subsequently remained in the country for more than two years.
The Sierra Leonean government discontinued the criminal proceedings against Koroma in July 2026, with the Attorney-General’s office stating that the matter was no longer before the court and that the former president was free to return home.
His return followed an announcement by Sierra Leonean Vice President Mohamed Jalloh on Friday that Koroma would return to the country in the spirit of peace and national cohesion.
After arriving in Sierra Leone, Koroma held a press conference, declaring that he was “back home” and signalling his willingness to participate in consultations and offer advice as the country pursues peace and reconciliation.
