Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has found himself stranded in Guinea Bissau following a sudden military takeover that occurred yesterday, throwing the West African nation into political uncertainty and international concern.
The coup unfolded just a day before the official announcement of the presidential election results, which had been eagerly anticipated by both domestic and international observers. The group of military officers, who have self-identified as the “High Military Command for the Restoration of Order”, declared the immediate suspension of the electoral process “until further notice.” They further imposed an overnight curfew, restricted movement across the country, and closed all land, air, and sea borders, effectively isolating the nation.
Top Officials Arrested
In the immediate aftermath, key political figures were detained. President Umaro Sissoco Embalo confirmed his own arrest during a phone call with French broadcaster France24, stating: “I have been deposed. I am currently at the general staff headquarters.” In addition, Domingos Simoes Pereira, the head of the main opposition party PAIGC, was also apprehended by the military. Observers noted that Denis N’Canha, the army officer spearheading the coup, personally ensured the detention of President Embalo, reflecting the swift consolidation of power by the insurgents.
Stranded Election Observers
Jonathan, who was in Guinea Bissau as head of the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) election observation mission, had been posting updates before the coup occurred. Upon arrival, he remarked: “We arrived in Bissau this evening as members of the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) Election Mission ahead of Guinea Bissau’s presidential and parliamentary polls scheduled for November 23, 2025. We wish the people of Guinea Bissau a peaceful, inclusive and transparent elections.”
On election day, Jonathan and his team conducted visits to several polling stations, ensuring that their mission monitored the voting process. He shared another update: “Members of the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) Election Mission today conducted visits to some polling stations in Bissau as voting commenced… WAEF extends warm regards to the people and authorities of Guinea-Bissau and wishes for a smooth voting process and a peaceful, stable post-election period.”
Jonathan’s Safety Confirmed
Attempts to contact Jonathan’s current spokesman, Ikechukwu Eze, were unsuccessful. However, former spokesman Ima Niboro confirmed Jonathan’s wellbeing to Daily Trust, saying: “I spoke with Jonathan and he assured me that he is safe.” This reassurance came as relief to both Nigerians and the international community following the alarming developments in Guinea Bissau.
Condemnation of the Coup
In response to the coup, Jonathan, alongside other African leaders, issued a strong condemnation of the military’s actions, emphasizing the importance of restoring democratic governance. Their joint statement read: “We express deep concern with the announcement of a coup d’etat by the armed forces, while the nation was waiting for the announcement of the results. We deplore this blatant attempt to disrupt the democratic process… We request the African Union and the ECOWAS to take the necessary steps to restore constitutional order. We call on the people of Guinea Bissau to remain calm, and we reaffirm our commitment to supporting the country on its democratic path.”
[p]As the situation continues to unfold, Jonathan and his fellow election observers remain stranded in the capital, awaiting developments while urging the international community to intervene and help stabilize Guinea Bissau amid this sudden crisis.[/p>