The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a strong condemnation of the recent military takeover in Guinea-Bissau, describing it as a severe threat to democracy and stability in West Africa.
Nigeria's Strong Stance Against Unconstitutional Power Grab
In an official statement released on Thursday, November 27, 2025, through Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the Nigerian government expressed profound dismay at the military insurrection that led to an unconstitutional change of government in Guinea-Bissau.
The statement emphasized that this coup d'état represents a blatant violation of the fundamental principles outlined in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance. This protocol explicitly rejects any ascension to power through unconstitutional means, making the military takeover in Guinea-Bissau a direct challenge to regional agreements.
Immediate Demands and Regional Implications
Nigeria has called for the immediate and unconditional restoration of constitutional order in Guinea-Bissau, while also demanding the safety and security of all detained individuals. The Federal Government stressed the importance of respecting democratic institutions in the troubled nation.
The statement specifically urged authorities in Guinea-Bissau to ensure the protection of all election observers still in the country on official assignment. All actors involved were called upon to exercise maximum restraint, prioritize peaceful dialogue, and respect the will of the Guinea-Bissau people as expressed through their ballots.
Furthermore, Nigeria emphasized the importance of allowing the electoral management body to complete its work by announcing election results peacefully, without military interference in the democratic process.
Accountability and Regional Cooperation
The Federal Government issued a clear warning that those responsible for the coup will be held accountable for their actions, which threaten to plunge Guinea-Bissau into chaos and reverse the hard-won democratic gains the country has achieved.
As a key member of both ECOWAS and the African Union (AU), Nigeria pledged to work closely with regional and international partners to take all necessary measures ensuring the swift return to normalcy and constitutional governance in Guinea-Bissau.
The statement concluded by reaffirming Nigeria's unwavering commitment to promoting democracy, peace, and stability across the African continent, standing in solidarity with the people of Guinea-Bissau during this challenging period for their nation's democracy.
