By: Abdul Razack Gbla
In a significant diplomatic development, the former President of Sierra Leone, His Excellency Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, is set to relocate to Abuja temporarily. This decision comes following a high-level ECOWAS delegation’s mission to Freetown, led by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of Ghana and President Macky Sall of Senegal.
The Government of Nigeria has extended a gracious offer to host President Koroma, and he has accepted the invitation. Pending approval, the former President, accompanied by his office manager and personal assistant, is scheduled to depart Freetown on Thursday, 4 January 2024.
As part of the agreement reached during the diplomatic mission, Sierra Leone’s President, His Excellency Julius Maada Bio, is expected to approve the relocation. The proposed arrangements post-departure include discontinuation of all legal and administrative procedures against President Koroma, continued disbursement of his benefits, securing his residences in Sierra Leone, and potential reimbursement for medical and travel expenses.
This development marks a collaborative effort within the ECOWAS community and emphasises the commitment to peaceful transitions and diplomatic solutions in the region. The eyes are now on President Bio’s response to these proposed arrangements.
See letter to President Bio
