The former Nigerian president was in Guinea-Bissau to monitor the country’s elections.
The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to deploy all diplomatic measures to ensure the safe return of former President Goodluck Jonathan, who is currently trapped in Guinea-Bissau following a military coup.
Jonathan is part of a joint African Union, ECOWAS, and West African Elders Forum mission that was in the West African nation to monitor the presidential election over the weekend.
The House also called on the government to assist any Nigerians caught up in the unrest. The call came during Thursday’s plenary session, a day after the military took control of Guinea-Bissau.
Military officers suspended the electoral process and closed the country’s borders three days after the legislative and presidential elections. General Denis N’Canha, head of the presidential military office, announced that all branches of the armed forces were taking over the leadership of the country “until further notice.”
Incumbent President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, favored to win Sunday’s election, was detained inside a building behind military headquarters with the chief of staff and the interior minister. Other key officials arrested include General Biague Na Ntan, Deputy Chief of Staff General Mamadou Traore, and Interior Minister Botche Cande.
ECOWAS, AU, Nigeria Condemn Coup
Election observers from ECOWAS, the African Union, and the Nigerian government condemned the coup, describing it as “unacceptable” and calling for a return to democratic governance. They expressed deep concern that the announcement of the coup came just after meetings with the two leading presidential candidates, both of whom had committed to respecting the will of the people.
Observers stressed the need for immediate action to restore constitutional order and ensure the safety of officials and citizens.