The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned the military coup in Guinea-Bissau, describing it as “unfortunate” and a serious setback to democratic governance in West Africa.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said Nigeria was deeply dismayed by the development, stressing that the military takeover undermines constitutional order, stability, and democratic progress, not only in Guinea-Bissau but across the sub-region.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria, in the strongest possible terms, 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,” the statement read.
The ministry noted that the coup violates the fundamental principles of the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, which rejects any unconstitutional change of government.
Nigeria expressed solidarity with the people of Guinea-Bissau and called for the immediate and unconditional restoration of constitutional order, respect for democratic institutions, and the safety of all detainees.
It further urged all parties to exercise restraint, embrace peaceful dialogue, and respect the will of the people following the recent elections in the country.
“We warn that those behind 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 ministry stated.
Nigeria also pledged to collaborate with regional and international partners to ensure a swift return to normalcy and democratic governance in Guinea-Bissau.
The coup unfolded on Wednesday, when military officers announced they had taken “total control” of the country, suspended the electoral process, and shut the borders, just three days after legislative and presidential elections.
General Denis N’Canha, head of the presidential military office, announced that a joint command of the armed forces had assumed control “until further notice.” President Umaro Embalo, who was expected to win Sunday’s election, was reportedly arrested.
Election observers from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU) also condemned the coup, describing it as a blatant attempt to derail the democratic process. They urged both bodies to take urgent steps to restore constitutional rule.
