Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that former President Goodluck Jonathan is safe and has been evacuated from Guinea-Bissau, following a sudden military intervention that halted the nation’s electoral process.
Tensions escalated in Guinea-Bissau on November 23 when a group of military officers announced they had seized power. The move abruptly disrupted the country’s presidential and parliamentary elections, leading to the removal of the sitting president and the suspension of voting activities.
Jonathan had been in the country as the head of the West African Elders Forum Election Observation Mission, observing the elections at the time the military declared control. His presence during the period of instability sparked widespread concern among Nigerians.
Addressing journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, November 27, Foreign Affairs spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa dispelled fears, stating that the former president had safely departed the country. According to him, Jonathan boarded a special flight alongside members of his delegation, including diplomat Mohamed Chambas.
Ebienfa emphasized that Jonathan is “very safe,” assuring the public that the evacuation was carried out without incident.