Dare Babalola
The Nigerian Federal Government has condemned the military coup in Guinea-Bissau, which seized power on Wednesday, disrupted presidential election results announcement, and detained President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, describing it as a dangerous blow to West Africa’s fragile democracy.
According to the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, on Thursday, the coup is a regrettable action which caused deep concern.
Describing the move as an unconstitutional change of government, the FG said it “condemns this act of military insurrection which undermines the democratic progress, constitutional order, and stability not only of Guinea-Bissau but of the entire West African sub-region.”
It added that the coup “represents a blatant violation of the fundamental principles of the Economic Community of West African States Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, which explicitly rejects any ascension to power through unconstitutional means.”
Standing in solidarity with Guinea-Bissau’s people, Nigeria insisted on the ‘immediate and unconditional restoration of constitutional order’, safe release of detained individuals, and strict adherence to the country’s democratic principles.
The statement also urged the authorities in Guinea-Bissau to ensure the protection of foreign observers still in the country.
“The Nigerian Government wishes to unequivocally call on the authorities in Guinea-Bissau to ensure and guarantee the safety of all election observers still in the country on official assignment,” it added.
Calling for restraint, the government appealed to all parties involved to remain peaceful and defer to the country’s democratic processes.
It noted, “The Federal Government of Nigeria urges all actors involved to exercise utmost restraint, prioritise peaceful dialogue, and respect the will of the people of Guinea-Bissau as expressed through their ballots and the peaceful conclusion of the election with the announcement of results by the electoral management body.”
Nigeria warned that those responsible for the coup would face consequences, saying, “We warn that the perpetrators of this act will be held accountable for their actions, which threaten to plunge the nation into chaos and reverse the hard-won gains of its democracy.”
The government reaffirmed its commitment to working with regional and international partners to restore stability.
“Nigeria, as a key member of the Economic Community of West African States and the African Union, will work closely with our regional and international partners to take all necessary measures to ensure the swift return to normalcy and constitutional governance in Guinea-Bissau.
“We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the promotion of democracy, peace, and stability across the African continent,” the statement added.
Guinea-Bissau was thrown into turmoil on Wednesday as military officers declared “total control’’ of the country, shutting its borders and suspending the electoral process just three days after the general elections.
Heavy gunfire was reported near the presidential palace earlier in the day, with armed men blocking access roads.
General Denis N’Canha, head of the presidential military office, announced that a command “composed of all branches of the armed forces was taking over the leadership of the country until further notice,” speaking while flanked by soldiers.
Incumbent president Umaro Embalo, considered a frontrunner in the polls, was said to be inside a building behind military headquarters “with the chief of staff and the minister of the interior,” according to a senior officer quoted by AFP.
“I have been deposed,” Embalo told French broadcaster France24 in a phone call.
