Nigerian Lawmakers Sound Alarm Over Stranded Former President
The House of Representatives has issued an urgent appeal to the Federal Government, demanding immediate diplomatic action to ensure the safe return of former President Goodluck Jonathan and other Nigerian election observers trapped in Guinea-Bissau following a military takeover.
Former President Jonathan was in the West African nation as part of a joint international observation mission involving the African Union, ECOWAS, and the West African Elders Forum to monitor last weekend's presidential election when armed forces seized power.
Emergency Parliamentary Session
The crisis came to light during Thursday's plenary session, which had initially focused on domestic socio-economic matters. Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu interrupted proceedings to highlight what he described as "an urgent matter" requiring immediate legislative attention.
House Leader Julius Ihonvbere provided lawmakers with critical details, confirming that Jonathan was on an international election observation assignment when the coup unfolded. He emphasized the former president's extensive experience monitoring elections across multiple countries including Zimbabwe, Liberia, Ghana, Mozambique, Pakistan, Tanzania, and South Africa.
"Currently, he is in Guinea-Bissau due to the coup," Ihonvbere stated, stressing that Jonathan's safety represents "a matter of national importance." He assured legislators that relevant government authorities were already aware of the situation and taking steps to secure the former leader's return.
Cross-Party Support for Rescue Efforts
Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda voiced strong support for the emergency motion, highlighting Jonathan's democratic credentials while urging that other Nigerians caught in the crisis receive equal attention.
"The importance we attach to his life should also apply to every other Nigerian, whether at home or abroad," Chinda asserted, calling for comprehensive assistance for all citizens affected by the political turmoil.
The motion received unanimous approval through a voice vote, formally urging the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic efforts to secure Jonathan's safe return while prioritizing the welfare of all Nigerian citizens impacted by events in Guinea-Bissau.
Coup Details and International Response
The military takeover was declared after intense gunfire erupted near the presidential palace. General Denis N'Canha, head of the presidential military office, announced that a command structure comprising all branches of the armed forces had assumed control of the country.
The military justification cited alleged involvement of "national drug lords" and the introduction of weapons intended to disrupt constitutional order. In response, the new military authorities imposed a nationwide curfew and suspended all media programming.
Both the African Union and ECOWAS have strongly condemned the power grab, noting that the military announcement followed meetings with both leading presidential candidates who had previously assured observers they would respect the election outcome.
The international missions have demanded the immediate release of detained electoral officials while calling for calm among the civilian population.
Jonathan, who chairs the West African Elders Forum observation mission, remains in Guinea-Bissau alongside numerous other foreign observers, unable to depart due to the complete closure of the country's borders. Associates have confirmed his current safety while emphasizing the need for continued efforts to facilitate his evacuation.
This latest incident adds to Guinea-Bissau's troubled history of political instability, marking multiple coups since the nation gained independence.
