The Federal Government of Nigeria has confirmed that former President Goodluck Jonathan is safe and has successfully departed Guinea-Bissau following the military takeover in the country. Jonathan was in Guinea-Bissau as part of the ECOWAS Monitoring Mission for the presidential and legislative elections held on November 23.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured the public of the former President’s safety:
“Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan is very safe and out of Guinea-Bissau.”
Meanwhile, the African Union (AU) and ECOWAS electoral missions have jointly condemned the coup d’état. A joint statement, signed by Filipe Nyusi (former President of Mozambique), Issifu Kamara, and Goodluck Jonathan, noted the orderly conclusion of voting before the military disruption.
The missions expressed deep concern over the military action:
“Despite these encouraging developments, we express deep concern with the announcement of a coup d’etat by the armed forces, while the nation was waiting for the announcement of the results.”
They lamented the timing of the military intervention, noting that it came shortly after meeting with the leading candidates:
“It is regrettable that this announcement came at a time when the missions had just concluded a meeting with the two leading presidential candidates, who assured us of their willingness to accept the will of the people.”
Condemning the disruption, they stated:
“We deplore this blatant attempt to disrupt the democratic process and the gains that have been achieved thus far.”
The AU and ECOWAS called for the armed forces to immediately release detained officials to allow the electoral process to proceed. They concluded by urging calm and reaffirming their commitment to democratic support:
“We call on the people of Guinea-Bissau to remain calm, and we reaffirm our commitment to supporting the country on its democratic path.”
“We underscore the importance of preserving peace, stability, and the well-being of the people during this sensitive period.”
