Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has been safely evacuated from Guinea-Bissau after a sudden military coup disrupted the country’s political landscape, according to emerging reports.
Jonathan was in the West African nation as part of a joint election observer mission organised by the African Union, ECOWAS, and the West African Elders Forum when the crisis unfolded.
Tensions escalated on Sunday after both incumbent President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and opposition candidate Fernando Dias declared themselves winners of the presidential election, even though official results had not been announced. The competing claims triggered unrest, prompting the military to suspend the electoral process, seal all borders, and impose a nationwide curfew.
Amid the chaos, soldiers reportedly provided security for Jonathan and facilitated his exit from the country to ensure his safety.
In Nigeria, the House of Representatives had earlier urged the federal government to employ all diplomatic channels to secure Jonathan’s safe return. Lawmakers also called for support for other Nigerians stranded in Guinea-Bissau due to the unfolding conflict.
The military later announced it had taken “total control” as of November 26, deepening uncertainty in a country long troubled by political volatility and contested elections.
