Togo has extradited Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, the former transitional leader of Burkina Faso, back to Ouagadougou to face prosecution on a raft of serious charges including embezzlement of public funds, corruption, incitement to commit crimes and money-laundering, authorities confirmed. The extradition took place on 17 January 2026, following a formal request from Burkina Faso’s judicial authorities and approval by the Lomé Court of Appeal after review of legal procedures.
Damiba, who first seized power in 2022 by overthrowing President Roch Marc Christian Kaboré, was itself toppled nine months later by fellow soldier Ibrahim Traoré amid internal military power struggles. He had been living in exile in Togo since his removal, but was arrested on 16 January 2026 in execution of a Burkina Faso warrant and subsequently handed over to his home country under extradition protocols.
The Togolese government said the extradition was carried out in accordance with its laws and international agreements, with guarantees from Burkina Faso that Damiba’s physical integrity would be respected, he would receive a fair trial, and would not face the death penalty. The development comes amid broader political tensions in Burkina Faso, where the current military regime has accused Damiba of plotting coup attempts and destabilising activities prior to his arrest.
Political analysts say the extradition underscores the volatile nature of power transitions in parts of West Africa and highlights the region’s efforts to pursue legal accountability for former leaders alleged to have abused their positions. Damiba’s trial proceedings are now expected to proceed under Burkina Faso’s judicial framework.
