Former President Goodluck Jonathan has been safely flown out of Guinea-Bissau, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed Thursday.
Spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa told reporters in Abuja: “Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan is safe and has left Guinea-Bissau on a special flight with his entire delegation.”
Why Was He There?
Jonathan headed the West African Elders Forum team observing Sunday’s presidential and legislative elections. The mission turned dangerous when soldiers seized power Wednesday, closing borders and detaining President Umaro Sissoco Embaló.
Strong Condemnation from Nigeria
The Federal Government slammed the takeover as an “unconstitutional change of government” that threatens West African stability and violates ECOWAS rules.
Before leaving, Jonathan and fellow international observers issued a joint statement rejecting the coup and calling for calm.
Latest on the Ground
- Military leader General Denis N’Canha says the junta will rule “until further notice”
- Borders reopened Thursday after 24-hour closure
- Embaló reportedly detained; opposition claims the coup may be staged
Guinea-Bissau has now suffered yet another military interruption to its fragile democracy.
