Former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma has returned home after more than two years in Nigeria, following the government’s decision to drop charges against him.

Koroma returned on Sunday, September 6, and was received by President Julius Maada Bio at State House in Freetown the following day.

Bio called for national unity, peace and reconciliation following Koroma’s return.

In a statement issued on September 8, the ECOWAS Commission commended Bio and the Sierra Leonean government for facilitating Koroma’s return, saying the decision to drop the charges was taken in the interest of national unity and lasting peace.

ECOWAS also praised Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for hosting Koroma and supporting efforts that led to his return, describing the development as a significant step towards peace and stability in Sierra Leone.