The Nigerian Government has condemned the unconstitutional change of government in Guinea-Bissau, describing the development as an “unfortunate military coup” that threatens democratic progress in the West African sub-region.
In a press statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and signed by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Nigeria said it learned of the development “with profound dismay and deep concern.”
The statement said the Federal Government of Nigeria, in the strongest possible terms, condemns the act of military insurrection, stressing that it undermines Guinea-Bissau’s democratic progress, constitutional order and stability, as well as that of the wider ECOWAS region.
Nigeria noted that the coup constitutes a blatant violation of the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, which explicitly rejects any ascension to power through unconstitutional means.
The Federal Government expressed solidarity with the people of Guinea-Bissau and called for the immediate and unconditional restoration of constitutional order, including:
- The safety and security of all those detained
- Full respect for the sanctity of democratic institutions in Guinea-Bissau
It also urged the authorities in Guinea-Bissau to ensure the safety of all election observers still in the country on official assignment including former president Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.
Call For Peaceful Dialogue
Calling for utmost restraint, Nigeria appealed to all parties to prioritise peaceful dialogue and respect the will of the Guinean people as expressed through their ballots and the peaceful conclusion of the electoral process, including the announcement of results by the electoral body.
The statement further warned that those behind the coup will be held accountable for actions that risk plunging the country into chaos and reversing the hard-won gains of its democracy.
Reaffirming its role as a key member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU), Nigeria pledged to work closely with regional and international partners to ensure a swift return to normalcy and constitutional governance in Guinea-Bissau.
“We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the promotion of democracy, peace, and stability across the African continent,” the statement concluded.
