The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to activate all diplomatic channels to ensure the safe return of former President Goodluck Jonathan, who is currently stranded in Guinea-Bissau following a military coup in the country.
Jonathan had travelled to Guinea-Bissau as part of a joint observer mission of the African Union, ECOWAS and the West African Elders Forum to monitor last weekend’s presidential election.
The military takeover occurred while the delegation was still in the country.
During Thursday’s plenary, the matter was brought to the fore after the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, alerted lawmakers to what he described as an “urgent national concern.”
The session had initially focused on the economic hardships Nigerians are facing before the House shifted attention to Jonathan’s situation.
House Leader, Julius Ihonvbere, who briefed the chamber, noted that Jonathan’s presence in Guinea-Bissau was strictly for an international assignment, highlighting his long-standing contributions to election monitoring across Africa and beyond.
“Former President Jonathan is in Guinea-Bissau as part of an internationally recognised observer mission. Unfortunately, the coup erupted while he was there. His safety must be treated as a matter of national importance,” Ihonvbere stated.
He confirmed that relevant government bodies were already monitoring the situation.
“The executive arm is fully aware and is taking necessary steps. But as a parliament, we must reinforce the call for his secure and speedy return,” he added.
Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda also supported the motion, stressing that Jonathan’s safety—as well as that of other Nigerians caught in the crisis—must be prioritised.
“The value we place on the life of a former president should extend to every Nigerian, whether they are in Guinea-Bissau or elsewhere,” Chinda said. “This is a responsibility we owe all our citizens abroad.”
The House adopted the motion following a voice vote, urging the Federal Government to intensify its diplomatic efforts to evacuate Jonathan and ensure the safety of all Nigerians affected by the unfolding crisis.
The situation in Guinea-Bissau escalated on Wednesday when General Denis N’Canha, head of the presidential military office, announced that a joint military command had assumed control of the country.
He further disclosed that the military had suspended the electoral process and shut all borders, three days after legislative and presidential elections were held.
Meanwhile, incumbent President Umaro Sissoco Embalo—who was widely expected to secure victory in the polls—was reported to be within a secured building near the military headquarters alongside top government officials.
