The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission has commended the Government of Sierra Leone, particularly President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, for facilitating the return of former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma after more than two years in Nigeria.
The regional body, in a press release issued in Abuja on Sunday, September 6, 2026, described Former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma’s return as an important development in Sierra Leone’s efforts to promote national reconciliation, unity and lasting peace.
Former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma returned to Freetown on Sunday following the Government’s decision in July 2026 to discontinue the criminal proceedings instituted against him in connection with the unrest of November 2023.
ECOWAS also expressed appreciation to regional leaders, particularly Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for hosting the former Sierra Leonean leader and supporting the diplomatic engagements that facilitated his safe return.
“The Commission remains committed to working closely with the Government and people of Sierra Leone, as well as international partners, in support of efforts to consolidate peace, stability, democratic governance and sustainable development in the country,” ECOWAS stated.
Former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma travelled to Nigeria in January 2024 for medical treatment while facing treason and other charges relating to the November 2023 unrest. The former President consistently denied involvement in the incident.
His return followed diplomatic consultations involving the Governments of Sierra Leone and Nigeria, ECOWAS and other regional leaders.
Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan announced Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma’s departure from Nigeria in a post on X. Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma later expressed gratitude to President Bio, President Tinubu, Parliament, the All People’s Congress, his friends and family for their support.
The former President said he had returned home refreshed and remains available for consultations and to offer advice whenever necessary. He also pledged to continue promoting peace, unity and democracy in Sierra Leone.
“Home will always be home,” Former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma declared.
President Bio received his predecessor at State House in Freetown on Monday, September 7, 2026, marking a significant moment in the country’s continuing pursuit of peace and national cohesion.
The meeting came a day after Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma’s arrival and attracted widespread public attention because of its political and national significance.
President Bio formally welcomed the former Head of State and called on Sierra Leoneans and political leaders to place the country’s interests above partisan differences.
“Today at the State House, I welcomed former President Ernest Bai Koroma back to Freetown and Sierra Leone. Let us unite in purpose, reinforce our peace, and commit to building a stronger, more prosperous, and hopeful Sierra Leone,” President Bio stated after the meeting.
The two leaders reportedly exchanged views on matters of national interest as Sierra Leone continues to confront political, social and economic challenges.
Former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma governed Sierra Leone from 2007 to 2018 and previously led the main opposition All People’s Congress. His return brought an end to a difficult period that had kept him outside the country for more than two years.
Political observers believe the cordial engagement between President Bio and former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma could encourage greater dialogue, confidence-building and cooperation among the country’s political actors.
The meeting also demonstrated the importance of diplomacy, constructive engagement and respect for democratic institutions in addressing political disagreements.
Senior Government officials, political figures, supporters and other dignitaries participated in activities surrounding Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma’s homecoming, reflecting the considerable public interest in his return and continuing influence in national politics.
For many Sierra Leoneans, the occasion represents more than the return of a former Head of State. It provides an opportunity for the country to move beyond political divisions and strengthen reconciliation among its people.
The responsibility now rests with political leaders, institutions and citizens to build on the goodwill generated by Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma’s return. Sustained dialogue, tolerance and respect for opposing views will be essential to transforming the symbolic meeting into lasting national progress.
Former President Koroma’s homecoming and meeting with President Bio serve as reminders that Sierra Leone’s future depends on protecting the peace, strengthening democracy and placing national unity above partisan interests.
