The Federal Government on Thursday condemned the military coup in Guinea-Bissau, describing it as “a serious threat to democracy and regional stability.”
The government’s position was contained in a statement issued in Abuja by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, on Thursday.
The statement said it learned of the coup “with profound dismay and deep concern,” describing the power seizure as “an unconstitutional change of government in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau.”
“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 said, maintaining that consequences would follow for those behind the takeover.
The filing confirmed that a military command “composed of all branches of the armed forces” announced the coup, seizing “total control” of the country three days after the general elections, shutting borders, grounding airports, imposing a curfew, enforcing curfew and suspending the electoral process.
Heavy gunfire was reportedly heard near the presidential palace, with armed officers blocking access roads around the presidential palace and its vicinity.
The Nigerian Government also demanded safety assurances for foreign election observers on an official mission.
“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,” the statement read.
The FG further appealed for “immediate and unconditional restoration of constitutional order,” and urged the protection of democratic institutions and freedom of movement for observers.
To prevent further escalation, the government urged political actors and military leaders in Guinea-Bissau to embrace restraint and dialogue.
“The Federal Government 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,” the FG stated.
The deposed president, Umaro Embalo, confirmed his removal in a phone call to France 24.
“I have been deposed,” Embalo said, adding, “I have been deposed,” as reported.
He later disclosed in another verified call to a French broadcaster that “I have been deposed,” confirming Jonathan’s public announcement of total control by force.
General Denis N’Canha, head of the presidential military office, during the coup announcement flanked by armed officers, claimed the military uncovered a plot involving “national drug lords” and weapons importation “to alter the constitutional order.”
Following the power takeover, media broadcasts were suspended, a curfew was imposed, and electoral activities were halted nationwide.
The National Electoral Commission later reported that its officers were attacked by unidentified armed men, an incident said to have happened amid nationwide political confusion.
Nigeria reaffirmed its role within ECOWAS and the AU, insisting it will coordinate with partners to ensure a return to constitutional governance.
“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.
