International
Just In: Guinea-Bissau Military Shields Former President Jonathan, Set to Escort Him Out of Country Following Successful Coup Plot
Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan is reportedly under protection by the Guinea-Bissau military as arrangements were being finalized, as of press time, to escort him out of the country amid the successful coup that has unfolded in the West African nation.
Jonathan, along with several African leaders who were in Guinea-Bissau to monitor the presidential election, became stranded following the sudden political upheaval.
The coup occurred after both incumbent President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and opposition candidate Fernando Dias declared themselves winners of Sunday’s presidential election, despite the absence of official results. In response, soldiers suspended the electoral process, sealed the country’s borders, and imposed a nationwide curfew.
Nigeria’s House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to secure Jonathan’s safe return. Lawmakers called on the government to activate diplomatic channels to facilitate his evacuation and also rescue other Nigerians currently trapped in Guinea-Bissau.
The political situation worsened on Wednesday when military officers declared a takeover, asserting “total control” just a day after the two presidential contenders insisted they had won the vote. In their announcement, the officers ordered the immediate suspension of the electoral exercise, closure of all land, air, and sea borders, and the enforcement of an overnight curfew until further notice.
Gunfire was reported near key government buildings, including the election commission’s headquarters, the presidential palace, and the interior ministry in the capital, Bissau. Official results from the election had been expected on Thursday.
In a further twist, the BBC reported that President Embaló was arrested by armed men on Wednesday in Bissau, deepening concerns over the country’s stability. His arrest came three days after the disputed election in which the main opposition candidate was disqualified.
Embaló confirmed to Jeune Afrique that he was apprehended at around 1 p.m. on November 26 while in his office at the presidential palace. Also detained were the Armed Forces Chief of Staff, General Biaguê Na Ntan; the Deputy Chief of Staff, General Mamadou Touré; and the Interior Minister, Botché Candé.
The outgoing president stated that no force was used against him, describing the development as a “coup d’état” led by the army chief of staff.
Report includes information from Gistmate, SaharaReporters, and other agencies.