Jonathan Commends Sierra Leone for Dropping Criminal Charges Against Former President Koroma
Abuja, Nigeria | July 17, 2026
Former Nigerian President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, has applauded the Government of Sierra Leone for discontinuing criminal proceedings against former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, describing the decision as a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to promote peace, national reconciliation and democratic stability.
Jonathan, who serves as Chairman of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF) and Chair of the West African Elders Forum (WAEF), made the commendation in a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday. He also welcomed the decision by the Sierra Leonean authorities to allow the former president to return home after the withdrawal of all criminal charges against him.
According to the former Nigerian leader, the action taken by the Sierra Leonean government demonstrates exceptional statesmanship, political maturity and a commitment to placing the country’s long-term peace and unity above partisan interests.
Jonathan stated that the decision reflects the resolve of President Julius Maada Bio’s administration and the people of Sierra Leone to prioritize national cohesion over political divisions. He described the development as “a victory for dialogue over confrontation, reconciliation over division, and diplomacy over discord,” adding that sustainable peace can only be achieved through understanding, mutual respect and constructive engagement among political actors.
The former president further commended the efforts of President Julius Maada Bio, the Government of Sierra Leone, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), diplomatic partners and other stakeholders whose mediation and commitment contributed to the peaceful resolution of the matter. He noted that the outcome demonstrates Africa’s growing capacity to resolve complex political disputes through dialogue and homegrown democratic institutions rather than prolonged conflict.
Jonathan also expressed gratitude to Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the hospitality extended to Koroma during his stay in Nigeria. He equally acknowledged the role played by Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, in supporting the former Sierra Leonean leader throughout the period of the legal proceedings.
The Sierra Leonean government officially discontinued the criminal case earlier this week after the Attorney-General filed a Notice of Discontinuance under Section 45 of the Criminal Procedure Act, 2024. The decision effectively ended the treason and related charges that had been filed against Koroma over his alleged involvement in the failed November 2023 coup attempt. As a consequence, his bail conditions were lifted, and he is now free to return to Sierra Leone at any time.
Koroma, who served as President of Sierra Leone from 2007 to 2018, welcomed the government’s decision, expressing gratitude to President Bio, ECOWAS leaders, the international community and all those who worked towards resolving the matter. He reiterated his commitment to peace, justice, reconciliation and the continued development of Sierra Leone.
Political observers believe the withdrawal of the charges is likely to ease tensions within Sierra Leone’s political landscape and strengthen ongoing reconciliation efforts ahead of the country’s future democratic engagements.