Quick Summary:
Federal Government denounces the military takeover in Guinea-Bissau, calling it a violation of ECOWAS democratic principles and urging swift restoration of civilian rule.
FG Condemns Unconstitutional Takeover
The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned the military coup that led to an unconstitutional change of government in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said Nigeria “condemns this act of military insurrection in the strongest possible terms,” describing it as a threat to democratic progress and regional stability.
Violation of ECOWAS Protocol
Ebienfa stated that the coup represents a blatant violation of the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, which explicitly rejects any ascension to power through unconstitutional means.
He added that the action undermines the democratic order not only in Guinea-Bissau but across the West African sub-region, warning that such acts could reverse hard-won democratic gains.
Call for Restoration of Constitutional Order
The Federal Government reaffirmed its solidarity with the people of Guinea-Bissau, demanding the immediate and unconditional restoration of constitutional order and the safety of all detained officials.
Nigeria also called for full respect for democratic institutions and urged the military authorities to guarantee the safety of election observers still in the country on official assignment.
Appeal for Restraint and Dialogue
The statement urged all parties involved to exercise utmost restraint, prioritize peaceful dialogue, and respect the will of the people as expressed through the recent elections and the announcement of results by the electoral management body.
Ebienfa warned that those behind the coup will be held accountable for actions that threaten to plunge the nation into chaos.
Nigeria’s Regional Commitment
Reaffirming Nigeria’s leadership role in regional stability, the statement emphasized that the country, as a key member of ECOWAS and the African Union (AU), will work closely with regional and international partners to ensure the swift return to normalcy and constitutional governance in Guinea-Bissau.
“Nigeria remains unwavering in its commitment to the promotion of democracy, peace, and stability across the African continent,” the statement concluded.
