Goodluck Jonathan is safe, out of coup-hit Guinea-Bissau – FG
Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has been confirmed safe and out of Guinea-Bissau following Wednesday’s military coup that plunged the country into political turmoil.
The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, on Thursday said Jonathan departed the country aboard a special flight alongside members of his delegation, including Mohamed Chambas. The former president had been in Bissau leading the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) Election Observation Mission for the nation’s general elections.
Jonathan, together with Filipe Nyusi, ex-Mozambican president and AU mission head, and Issifu Kamara of the ECOWAS mission, jointly condemned the coup, describing it as a direct attack on the democratic process. They called for calm among residents and pledged continued support for peace and stability.
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Nigeria also issued a firm statement rejecting the military takeover, expressing “deep concern” and describing it as an unconstitutional act that violates ECOWAS protocols.
The coup saw soldiers seize control of state institutions, shut borders, halt electoral activities, and deploy troops across Bissau after heavy gunfire was heard near the presidential palace. General Denis N’Canha announced that a unified military command had assumed authority “until further notice,” while President Umaro Sissoco Embalo confirmed his removal.
The takeover occurred amid heightened tensions and competing claims of victory between President Embalo and opposition candidate Fernando Dias. The military claims it intervened to prevent an alleged plot involving drug cartels and illegal arms importation.
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By Thursday, the junta reopened the borders, signalling slight relief in the unfolding crisis. Over 6,700 security personnel, including ECOWAS forces, had been deployed for the elections due to widespread political volatility.
Guinea-Bissau remains one of Africa’s most unstable nations, having recorded multiple coups since independence. Jonathan’s safe return eases concerns around the fate
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