Togolese authorities have extradited former Burkina Faso leader, Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, to Ouagadougou to face several criminal allegations, including corruption, misappropriation of public funds, and money laundering.
The transfer followed a formal extradition request sent by Burkina Faso’s judicial authorities to the Togolese government on January 12, 2026. Details of the development were contained in a statement issued in Lomé and made public on Tuesday by security analyst Zagazola Makama through his X handle.
Damiba, a citizen of Burkina Faso, was arrested in Togo on January 16, 2026, in accordance with the country’s extradition laws. Authorities acted after reviewing and validating the request submitted by Burkina Faso. He was later placed in custody while legal processes were underway.
According to the statement, the extradition request stemmed from accusations that include criminal diversion of public funds, illicit enrichment, corruption, incitement to commit crimes and misdemeanours, aggravated receiving of stolen property, and laundering of proceeds of crime.
After his arrest, the matter was transferred to the Investigating Chamber of the Lomé Court of Appeal. A public hearing was held on January 16, after which the court issued a favourable opinion approving the extradition.
The court reportedly relied on assurances given by Burkina Faso regarding reciprocity, relevant international legal agreements to which Togo is a signatory, and guarantees provided by Burkinabè authorities.
The guarantees, as outlined in the statement, include respect for Damiba’s physical integrity and human dignity, protection of his procedural rights, especially the right to a fair trial, and confirmation that the death penalty would not be enforced.
Damiba was officially handed over to Burkina Faso authorities on January 17, 2026.
