By Newspot Nigeria News Desk
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has been evacuated from Guinea-Bissau and confirmed safe following a reported military takeover in the West African nation, Nigeria’s said on Thursday.
The Ministry confirmed that Jonathan, who was in Guinea-Bissau to observe last Sunday’s presidential and legislative elections, departed the country aboard a special flight alongside his delegation.
Kimiebi Ebienfa, a spokesperson for the ministry, stated that the former President “is very safe and out of Guinea-Bissau,” noting that he travelled with his delegation, which included Ibrahim Gambari’s successor at the mediation table, diplomat Ibm Chambas.
Jonathan was leading the West African Elders Forum Election Observation Mission through the when the military reportedly suspended the electoral process and closed the country’s borders.
Military officers had announced a takeover of Guinea-Bissau’s leadership on Wednesday, declaring “total control” of the country until further notice. The announcement was made by General Denis N’Canha, head of the presidential military office, who said a joint command “composed of all branches of the armed forces” would lead the country. Nigeria has since condemned the development.
Nigeria reiterated its demand for the restoration of constitutional order in line with democratic principles and regional stability aspirations championed by West African leaders.
Jonathan had arrived Guinea-Bissau ahead of the elections as part of his continued regional diplomatic engagement, a role he has maintained in recent years through election monitoring and conflict-prevention missions.
His swift evacuation underscores Nigeria’s pre-emptive security diplomacy and coordination with multilateral partners in West Africa.
Newspot Nigeria continues to monitor unfolding developments across the region and will provide updates as new information becomes available.
