Nigerian Parliament Calls for Urgent Rescue of Former Leader
The House of Representatives has issued a strong appeal to the Federal Government, demanding immediate action to secure the safe return of former President Goodluck Jonathan from Guinea-Bissau. The former Nigerian leader finds himself stranded in the West African nation following a recent military coup that has destabilized the country.
Urgent Motion Raised in Parliament
The resolution emerged after House Leader Julius Ihonvbere brought forward a matter of urgent public importance concerning the former president's precarious situation. Ihonvbere highlighted that Jonathan was in Guinea-Bissau on an election monitoring mission when the political crisis unfolded, leaving him unable to return home safely.
Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda voiced his support for the motion, emphasizing that while Jonathan's safety remains paramount, the protection of all Nigerian citizens abroad deserves equal attention from the government. The House subsequently reached a unanimous decision, adopting the motion and directing the executive branch to employ all available diplomatic channels.
Diplomatic Efforts Intensify
The parliamentary resolution specifically calls on the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic efforts to ensure the immediate and secure extraction of the former president. Jonathan, who has built a reputation as a credible election observer across Africa and beyond for various regional and international organizations, now faces an unexpected security challenge due to the volatile political situation in Guinea-Bissau.
The development has raised concerns about the safety of Nigerian dignitaries and citizens involved in international missions, particularly in regions experiencing political instability. The House of Representatives has made it clear that bringing Jonathan home safely represents an urgent national priority that requires swift governmental intervention.
