Tension Rises As House Of Reps Demands Swift Extraction Of Jonathan From Guinea-Bissau

The House of Representatives on Thursday urged the Federal Government to deploy diplomatic channels and every available option to secure the safe return of former President Goodluck Jonathan, who is currently stranded in Guinea-Bissau following a military coup that disrupted the nation’s electoral process.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The call followed the adoption of a motion of urgent national importance sponsored by the House Leader, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, during plenary in Abuja.

Presenting the motion, Ihonvbere explained that Jonathan had travelled to Guinea-Bissau as part of an election observation mission but became trapped on Wednesday when soldiers seized power just as official results were set to be announced.

Earlier reports indicated that hundreds of international observers attempting to flee through the airport were also left stranded as the crisis unfolded.

On Wednesday, officers operating under the High Military Command for the Restoration of Order announced they had taken full control of the country. They suspended the electoral process “until further notice,” shut all land, air and sea borders, and imposed a night-time curfew.

Tensions heightened after both leading candidates—incumbent President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and Fernando Dias—declared themselves winners before collation was completed.

The army also reportedly arrested the main opposition leader, Domingos Simões Pereira, according to observers quoted in media reports.

Political analyst Haque confirmed the arrest and raised concerns over worsening conditions in the country, including internet blackouts and curfew enforcement.

The coup is said to be led by Denis N’Canha, a former head of the presidential guard.

Speaking on the floor of the House, Ihonvbere stressed the urgency of the situation and called on the government to act swiftly.

“The government must pursue diplomatic and all necessary measures to ensure the safe return of former President Jonathan, who is currently trapped following the coup,” he told lawmakers.