By Ayodele Oni
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, was among those that accompanied former Sierra Leonean President, Ernest Bai Koroma, to Freetown on the instruction of President Bola Tinubu.
According to her, Koroma’s return marked the successful conclusion of a regional diplomatic and confidence-building process
The Federal Government facilitated the safe and dignified return of Koroma to the country, following more than two years of temporary relocation to Nigeria.
The Minister said Koroma’s relocation to Nigeria in January 2024 followed engagements by the Economic Community of West African States, ( ECOWAS) aimed at promoting peace, stability and political understanding in Sierra Leone.
According to her, the process helped create conditions for greater understanding between President Julius Maada Bio and the former president, paving the way for Koroma’s temporary stay in Nigeria.
“His conduct throughout this period reflected restraint, statesmanship, and commitment to a peaceful outcome,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu said.
The Minister noted that during his stay in Nigeria, sustained engagements involving ECOWAS, the Nigerian Government and other stakeholders contributed to resolving issues that had necessitated his relocation.
She expressed appreciation to President Bio, former President Koroma and the people of Sierra Leone for their cooperation and commitment to peace.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu said Nigeria remained committed to regional harmony, constitutional order and democratic stability, expressing confidence that Koroma’s return would further strengthen national reconciliation and peace in Sierra Leone.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo also joined the Minister in escorting Koroma back to Freetown.
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