The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to urgently deploy diplomatic channels and all necessary interventions to ensure the safe evacuation of former President Goodluck Jonathan, who has been trapped in Guinea-Bissau following a sudden military coup in the country.
The resolution was adopted on Thursday after House Leader Prof. Julius Ihonvbere moved a motion of urgent national importance during plenary in Abuja.
Jonathan Caught in Coup While on Election Mission
Ihonvbere informed lawmakers that the former Nigerian leader had travelled to Guinea-Bissau as part of an international election observation mission.
However, chaos erupted on Wednesday when soldiers seized power just as electoral officials were preparing to announce final results.
Jonathan and hundreds of other foreign observers reportedly made attempts to leave the country but were unable to do so after soldiers shut down all exit routes.
Military Officers Take Over, Suspend Election
The coup plotters, operating under the banner of the High Military Command for the Restoration of Order, declared they had assumed full control of the state.
They immediately suspended the electoral process “until further notice” and ordered the closure of all land, air, and sea borders. A nationwide overnight curfew was also imposed.
Tensions heightened further after both major presidential contenders—incumbent Umaro Sissoco Embaló and challenger Fernando Dias—declared themselves winners separately before official collation was completed.
Observers also reported the arrest of Domingos Simões Pereira, leader of the main opposition party, raising fears of escalating instability. Political analyst Haque confirmed the arrest while warning that the military appeared to be disrupting internet access across the country.
Coup Linked to Former Presidential Guard Commander
The coup is believed to be led by Denis N’Canha, a senior military officer who previously headed President Embaló’s presidential guard.
His faction announced the intention to “restore order,” although international observers have described the situation as a classic power grab.
House Demands Swift Action From FG
With Jonathan and other observers still unable to leave Guinea-Bissau, Ihonvbere urged the Federal Government to act without delay.
He stated: “The government should explore diplomatic and every other measure to facilitate the safe return of former President Jonathan who is currently trapped following the coup.”
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The House unanimously supported the call, stressing the urgency of protecting Nigeria’s former head of state and preventing further escalation.
