The House of Representatives called on the Federal Government to employ diplomatic channels and all necessary measures to secure the safe return of former President Goodluck Jonathan, who is stranded in Guinea Bissau following a military coup.
The resolution came after the adoption of a motion of urgent national importance presented by House Leader Prof. Julius Ihonvbere.
He informed the chamber that Jonathan, who was in the West African nation as an election observer, became trapped when the coup unfolded just as election results were about to be announced.
Jonathan, along with hundreds of other foreign observers, attempted to flee to the airport but remains stranded.
A group of military officers, dubbing themselves the “High Military Command for the Restoration of Order,” seized control of the country.
This occurred a day after the two leading presidential candidates incumbent Umaro Sissoco Embalo and challenger Fernando Dias—each claimed victory.
The coup leaders immediately suspended the electoral process “until further notice,” closed all land, air, and sea borders, and imposed an overnight curfew.
Embalo confirmed his deposition in a phone interview with France24, stating he was being held at the general staff headquarters.
Additionally, Domingos Simoes Pereira, leader of the main opposition PAIGC party, has been arrested.
Reports indicate the military is attempting to disrupt internet access amid the curfew. The coup is reportedly led by Denis N’Canha, former head of the presidential guard.
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