This follows a recent amnesty law in Ivory Coast as well as the recent acquittal of Mr Gbagbo at the International Criminal Court (ICC), where conditions for his release are being heard on Friday.

Large crowds and the former first lady Simon Gbagbo welcomed back six former ministers of Mr Gbagbo and dozens of his allies who had fled to Ghana after a disputed election in 2010.

Mr Gbagbo refused to concede defeat in that election, and a violent conflict erupted between forces loyal to Mr Gbagbo and to current President Alassane Ouattara, leaving more than 3,000 people dead.

The return of Mr Gbagbo's allies to the country was co-ordinated by the UN's refugee agency, which is attempting to bring back more than 20,000 Ivorians in exile. It is part of reconciliation efforts led by current president.

Last year he decided to pardon 800 people - a step that angered some human rights activists who say they could entrench widespread impunity. Among the group of returnees is a former interior minister, who said they were preparing for Mr Gbagbo's return to the country after his acquittal two weeks ago.

If the former president is released unconditionally it could have a big impact in the country where fresh elections are scheduled for next year.