A senior government source has confirmed that former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GEJ, is safe in Guinea-Bissau following the recent military takeover in the country. The insider, speaking on condition of anonymity, recently said that arrangements are underway to guarantee his return to Nigeria.
According to the source, a multinational task force, which includes Nigerian personnel, is currently in Guinea-Bissau to support the safety of GEJ and other Nigerian officials currently in the country.
“Nigeria is taking the necessary steps to ensure their security and facilitate their return,” the source stated.
Recall that the Federal Government recently condemned the coup and called for the quick restoration of constitutional order in Guinea-Bissau.
FG described it as an unconstitutional change of government that poses a major risk to stability in the West African region.
In a press statement issued by the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Nigeria revealed that the coup report was received with great dismay and deep concern.
According to Kimiebi, the takeover clearly undermines democratic progress and constitutional order in Guinea-Bissau, and such a decision should not be encouraged.
FG expressed solidarity with the people of Guinea-Bissau, calling for the immediate restoration of constitutional governance, the safety and security of all those detained, and total respect for the country’s democratic institutions.
Urging all parties involved to stay calm and embrace dialogue, Nigeria appealed to everyone in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau to respect the outcome of the recently concluded elections, whose results were announced by the electoral commission.
The statement further referenced the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, which rejects any power grab through unconstitutional means.
Reiterating its commitment to promoting democracy, peace and stability across Africa, the FG vowed to keep collaborating with regional and international partners to support a return to constitutional rule.
The Federal Government concluded by urging authorities in Guinea-Bissau to ensure the safety of election observers still present in the country.
