Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara (JFK), legal representative for former President Ernest Bai Koroma, has alleged that his client was compelled to leave Sierra Leone and take up residence in Nigeria against his will.

Speaking publicly on the matter, JFK maintained that Koroma never intended to leave the country and would have preferred to spend his lifetime in Sierra Leone.

According to JFK, the Bio-led government pressured the former president into leaving, making it impossible for him to remain in the country.

He emphasized that throughout Koroma’s tenure and even during the civil war, he never sought refuge elsewhere, reinforcing his commitment to Sierra Leone.

“Ernest Koroma was forced to leave Sierra Leone. He didn’t leave by choice, nor does he wish to remain in Nigeria. He wants to return home,” JFK asserted. He further revealed that discussions are ongoing with ECOWAS and other stakeholders to facilitate Koroma’s return.

Addressing concerns about Koroma’s health, JFK dismissed speculation, insisting that the former president is in good health.

He also refuted claims that Koroma is in self-imposed exile, reiterating that his departure was not voluntary but rather the result of external pressure.