Togolese authorities have extradited former Burkina Faso leader Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba to Ouagadougou to face multiple criminal charges, including corruption, misappropriation of public funds, and money laundering.
The extradition followed a formal request submitted by Burkina Faso’s judicial authorities to Togo on January 12, 2026, according to a statement issued in Lomé and shared by security analyst Zagazola Makama on X.
Arrest and legal process in Togo
Damiba, a Burkinabè national, was arrested in Togo on January 16, 2026, in line with the country’s extradition procedures, after authorities reviewed and validated the request. He was remanded in custody pending legal proceedings.
The allegations include criminal diversion of public funds, illicit enrichment, corruption, incitement to commit crimes, aggravated receiving of stolen property, and laundering of proceeds of crime.
Following his arrest, the case was referred to the Investigating Chamber of the Lomé Court of Appeal, which held a public hearing on January 16 and issued a favourable opinion for extradition.
Guarantees and handover
The court’s decision was reportedly based on Burkina Faso’s assurances of reciprocity, adherence to applicable international legal instruments, and guarantees for Damiba’s safety and procedural rights.
These guarantees include respect for his physical integrity and human dignity, protection of his procedural rights, a fair trial, and confirmation that the death penalty would not be applied.
Damiba was formally handed over to Burkina Faso authorities on January 17, 2026.
