A journalist and activist that was detained overseas by the Nigerian government for nearly five years reunited with his family over the weekend in New Jersey.

Yele Sowore had a welcome home celebration Saturday in Haworth, when he returned home to his wife, two children, community members and local officials.

Rep. Josh Gottheimer worked with the state department for Sowore’s return to New Jersey.

Sowore, who was recently released, was held in a Nigerian prison on treason charges after organizing protests over the country’s 2019 presidential election.