A major Ivorian opposition member returned from exile over the weekend. 

Noël Akossi Benjo who is the former mayor of the commune of Plateau was forced into exile with his family three years ago after being accused of embezzlement of public funds and sentenced in absentia by the Ivorian justice.  

Bendjo has however always denied the charges which he says are politically motivated. 

On Saturday evening, the former mayor was welcomed by jubilant activists at the Maison du PDCI. 

On his arrival, he thanked President Alhassan Ouatarra for accepting him back and called for reconciliation and unity in Côte d'Ivoire.

Akossi Benjo also assured Ivorians that he had returned with love, tolerance, a spirit of peace, reconciliation and forgiveness.