Affirming Loyalty to SLPP & President Bio… Napoleon Koroma Denies First Lady’s Allegations
Former Secretary General of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), Umaru Napoleon Koroma, has responded publicly to allegations reportedly made by the First Lady, Fatima Bio, accusing him of dishonesty and masterminding disruptions during the recent State Opening of Parliament.
Koroma’s response, from their WhatsApp conversation circulating in Social media and later posted to his official Facebook page, has gone viral, drawing significant public and political attention. In the statement, he firmly denies any wrongdoing and defends both his integrity and his loyalty to the ruling SLPP and President Julius Maada Bio.
“Napoleon and dishonesty are not even synonymous,” Koroma wrote. “I danced in that hall and celebrated with the grassroots. Yes, I said exactly what I said without missing my words.”
Referring to claims that he orchestrated or participated in behind-the-scenes planning, Koroma dismissed such allegations, emphasizing that he has never hidden his actions and that he acts only in service to the party.
“I don’t plot or plan for anyone, as Allah is the master of that. I am not a coward, and I don’t hide behind my fingers at all.”
He also addressed rumors suggesting he may have disrespected the First Lady:
“I will never attack a woman, talk less of the wife of our leader — never… I can defend the Office of the First Lady any day, any time it comes under attack. That is the right thing to do.”
Koroma, who served as SLPP Secretary General from 2017 to 2025, used the opportunity to highlight his long-standing service to the party, describing himself as a dedicated member since 1996.
“The real Napoleon is the one who started serving the SLPP since 1996 — from school, university to national level — the one who left his legal career to fight for the SLPP to come to power and retain it. The one who served for 8 years without blemish.”
He emphasized that his actions during the recent SLPP convention — particularly his celebratory dance in the conference hall — were innocent and misinterpreted by critics. Koroma insisted that his loyalty remains with the party and President Bio.
“Since 2017, we have only one leader in the SLPP, and that is President Bio. You either obey him or don’t get your way in the party.”
While Koroma refrained from directly naming the First Lady in much of his statement, the context of his message leaves little doubt that it was in response to her alleged remarks following the controversial events at the State Opening.
He concluded his message with a reaffirmation of his loyalty and resilience:
“SLPP will remain strong and continue to govern this state. I am SLPP, and nothing will change that. Even when I am called a ‘dog’ or other names in the discharge of my duties, I will not take offence.”