The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to deploy all diplomatic channels to secure the safe return of former President Goodluck Jonathan, who is trapped in Guinea-Bissau following a military coup in the country.
Jonathan is in Guinea-Bissau as part of a joint African Union, ECOWAS and West African Elders Forum mission to monitor last weekend’s presidential election when the coup erupted.
The issue was raised during Thursday’s plenary, which initially centred on the hardships facing ordinary Nigerians, before Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu drew attention to what he described as “an urgent matter” requiring the House’s intervention.
The Leader of the House, Julius Ihonvbere, who took the floor thereafter, informed lawmakers that Jonathan was in the country on an international election observation assignment when the military takeover occurred.
“Currently, he is in Guinea-Bissau due to the coup,” Ihonvbere said, emphasising that although the House was not debating the coup itself, Jonathan’s safety is “a matter of national importance.”
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The officers suspended the country’s electoral process and closed its borders, three days after the West African nation’s legislative and presidential elections.
On Wednesday afternoon, the head of the presidential military office, General Denis N’Canha, told members of the press that a command “composed of all branches of the armed forces, was taking over the leadership of the country until further notice”.
N’Canha read the announcement seated at a table and surrounded by armed soldiers.
He added that relevant government authorities were aware of the development and were already taking steps to ensure Jonathan’s safe return.
Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda backed the call, stressing Jonathan’s democratic credentials and global engagement.
The lawmaker also noted that other Nigerians caught up in the crisis must be rescued and not overlooked.
“The importance we attach to his life should also apply to every other Nigerian, whether at home or abroad,” Chinda said.
The House subsequently adopted the motion through a voice vote, urging the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic efforts to facilitate Jonathan’s return and prioritise the safety of all Nigerian citizens affected by the unfolding crisis.