Reps asks FG to secure Jonathan’s safe return from Guinea-Bissau

The house of representatives has asked the federal government to explore diplomatic and other measures to facilitate the safe return of former President Goodluck Jonathan, who is reportedly trapped in Guinea-Bissau following a coup.

The call came after the house adopted a motion of urgent national importance moved by Julius Ihonvbere, the majority leader, on Thursday.

On Wednesday, military officers in Guinea-Bissau took control of the government, suspended the country’s electoral process and declared they will be in control “until further notice”.

Jonathan is among African leaders who are currently trapped in Guinea-Bissau following a coup d’état in the country.

Ihonvbere told lawmakers that Jonathan was in the country as an election observer when the military takeover occurred, saying that “we must act now” to bring him home safely.

He noted that Jonathan and many foreign observers were stranded after the military seized control just as election results were about to be declared.

According to the house, foreign observers who rushed to the airport to flee were left stranded after the coup plotters closed all land, air and sea borders and imposed an overnight curfew.

A group of officers calling themselves the “high military command for the restoration of order” claimed “total control” of Guinea-Bissau and ordered suspension of the electoral process “until further notice”.

The coup followed rival declarations of victory by President Umaro Sissoco Embalo and Fernando Dias, the leading candidate, which had triggered widespread tension before the military intervention.

In one of the most dramatic developments, PAIGC opposition leader Domingos Simoes Pereira was arrested, and reports indicate the military may be attempting to shut down internet access and enforce curfews.

Lawmakers warned that the unfolding crisis in Guinea-Bissau could affect many Nigerians abroad and urged prompt diplomatic engagement to safeguard citizens and former officials caught up in the upheaval.