The Nigerian House of Representatives has urged the federal government to take immediate diplomatic action to ensure the safe return of former President Goodluck Jonathan, who remains stranded in Guinea-Bissau following a military coup.
The call came after a motion of urgent public importance was raised by House Leader Julius Ihonvbere, who noted that Jonathan was in Guinea-Bissau on an election monitoring mission. Ihonvbere highlighted the former president’s extensive experience in overseeing elections across Africa and beyond, emphasizing that his current predicament requires swift government intervention.
Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda supported the motion, stressing that the safety of Jonathan must be prioritized, but also reminding the government of its responsibility to protect all Nigerians abroad.
The House unanimously adopted the resolution, directing the federal government to exhaust all diplomatic channels and measures to guarantee Jonathan’s immediate and safe repatriation.
The development underscores growing concerns over the security of Nigerian officials and citizens during international engagements, especially in regions experiencing political instability.