Former President Goodluck Jonathan has applauded the Sierra Leonean government for discontinuing the criminal proceedings against former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, describing the move as a major step toward national reconciliation and lasting peace.
Jonathan, who serves as Chairman of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF) and Chair of the West African Elders Forum (WAEF), made his position known in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja.
He welcomed the decision of the Sierra Leonean authorities to end the treason case against Koroma and allow the former president to return home, saying the development demonstrated political maturity and a commitment to the country’s stability.
“This important decision is a remarkable demonstration of statesmanship, magnanimity and commitment to national reconciliation.
“It reflects the resolve of the Government and people of Sierra Leone to place the country’s long-term peace, unity and stability above any other consideration.
“This outcome is a victory for dialogue over confrontation, reconciliation over division, and diplomacy over discord,” Jonathan said.
According to the former Nigerian president, the decision reinforces the importance of dialogue, mutual respect and peaceful engagement in resolving political disagreements.
He noted that sustainable peace can only be achieved when leaders prioritise national interest over political differences.
Jonathan commended Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio, the government and the people of Sierra Leone for demonstrating leadership and placing the country’s future above partisan interests.
He also praised the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), diplomats, mediators, regional leaders and eminent personalities who participated in facilitating discussions that eventually led to the peaceful resolution of the matter.
The former president said the successful outcome further strengthened confidence in West Africa’s ability to resolve its own political challenges through regional institutions and African-led initiatives.
According to him, the process proved that the sub-region possesses the institutional capacity and leadership needed to prevent conflicts, promote reconciliation and preserve democratic governance.
“It demonstrates that, working together in good faith, our sub-region possesses the wisdom, experience and institutional mechanisms necessary to prevent conflict, promote reconciliation and preserve democratic stability.
“As Chair of the West African Elders Forum, I remain convinced that peace, justice, inclusiveness and dialogue are indispensable pillars for sustainable development and democratic consolidation across our region,” Jonathan stated.
Jonathan also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for hosting Koroma throughout his stay in Nigeria after he was granted permission to travel for medical treatment.
He equally acknowledged the role played by Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for ensuring the welfare and comfort of the former Sierra Leonean leader during his stay.
According to Jonathan, the support provided by the Nigerian government reflected the country’s longstanding commitment to regional peace, cooperation and responsible leadership within West Africa.
He urged political leaders, institutions and citizens of Sierra Leone to take advantage of the current atmosphere of reconciliation to strengthen national unity and continue working towards sustainable peace and development.
“I congratulate all those whose efforts contributed to this commendable outcome and wish the people of Sierra Leone enduring peace, stability and continued progress,” Jonathan added.
The Sierra Leonean government on Tuesday officially discontinued the treason case against Koroma, ending criminal proceedings connected to his alleged involvement in the failed coup attempt of November 2023.
The Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice confirmed that it had filed a formal notice discontinuing the prosecution.
Koroma, who served as Sierra Leone’s president from 2007 to 2018, was charged in January 2024 with treason and related offences over the alleged coup plot.
Following court approval, he travelled to Nigeria later that month to receive medical treatment and remained in the country pending developments in the case.
