‘Unfortunate’ – Nigeria condemns coup in Guinea-Bissau
The Nigerian government has strongly condemned the coup d’état in Guinea-Bissau, calling for the immediate restoration of democratic and constitutional governance in the country. The military takeover, which occurred on Wednesday, led to the arrest of the president and several top officials.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed deep concern, describing the development as “unfortunate.”
According to the ministry, the Federal Government of Nigeria “strongly condemns this act of military insurrection, which threatens democratic progress, constitutional order, and stability not only in Guinea-Bissau but across the entire West African region.”
Nigeria further stressed that the coup is a “clear violation of the fundamental principles of the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, which prohibits any unconstitutional change of government.”
Nigeria voiced its solidarity with the people of Guinea-Bissau, calling for the immediate and unconditional restoration of constitutional order, ensuring the safety of all those detained, and respecting the sanctity of democratic institutions.
The government urged all actors to “exercise utmost restraint, prioritize peaceful dialogue, and respect the will of the people of Guinea-Bissau” following the just-conducted election. The statement warned that those responsible for this act will be held accountable for actions that threaten to plunge the nation into chaos and reverse its hard-won democratic gains.
Nigeria pledged to “work closely with our regional and international partners to take all necessary measures to ensure the swift return to normalcy and constitutional governance in Guinea-Bissau.”
Military officers in Guinea-Bissau confirmed on Wednesday that a command “composed of all branches of the armed forces, was taking over the leadership of the country until further notice.” They simultaneously suspended the country’s electoral process and closed its borders, just three days after the legislative and presidential elections. Incumbent President Umaro Embalo, who was favored to win Sunday’s election, was arrested.
