Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has safely left Guinea-Bissau following the military coup that toppled the country’s government, the Federal Government confirmed on Thursday.
Jonathan had been in the West African nation as part of the West African Elders Forum Election Observation Mission to monitor the presidential and legislative elections when the military seized power.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed that Jonathan departed the country on a special flight along with members of his delegation, including Mohamed Chambas, ensuring their safety amidst the political crisis.
Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the ministry, told journalists in Abuja, “Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan is very safe and out of Guinea-Bissau. He left with a special flight with members of his delegation, including Mohamed Chambas.”
The coup has thrown Guinea-Bissau into turmoil, with military officers declaring total control, suspending the electoral process, and temporarily closing the borders. Incumbent President Umaro Sissoco Embalo confirmed in a phone call with France24 that he had been deposed, while soldiers blocked major access routes in the capital.
The Federal Government condemned the military takeover, describing it as an unconstitutional change of government that threatens regional stability.
In a joint statement with the African Union and ECOWAS election observers, Jonathan and his colleagues denounced the coup and called for calm among residents, stressing the need to preserve peace and stability in the country.
“The Federal Government learned of the development with profound dismay and deep concern,” the ministry said, reiterating that the coup violated the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance.
The political crisis follows Guinea-Bissau’s latest elections, which saw both the incumbent and opposition claiming victory. Over 6,700 security personnel, including members of the ECOWAS Stabilisation Force, had been deployed ahead of the polls amid mounting tension. The country has a long history of military takeovers, with four successful coups since independence.
With borders now reopened, attention has shifted to the wellbeing of other Nigerians in the country, as the Federal Government continues diplomatic engagement to protect its citizens and support the restoration of democratic governance.
