The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned Wednesday’s military coup in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, describing the unconstitutional takeover as a grave threat to democracy and regional stability.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and signed by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi, the government expressed “profound dismay and deep concern” over the “unfortunate military coup which has led to an unconstitutional change of government in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau.”
Nigeria warned that the development poses far-reaching implications for the West African region.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria, in the strongest possible terms, condemns this act of military insurrection which undermines the democratic progress, constitutional order, and stability not only of Guinea-Bissau but of the entire West African sub-region,” the statement read.
The government further stressed that the coup represents a direct breach of regional agreements, citing the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, which prohibits any ascension to power through unconstitutional means.
Reaffirming its solidarity with the people of Guinea-Bissau, Nigeria demanded the immediate and unconditional restoration of constitutional order as well as the safety and release of all detainees.
“We stand in solidarity with the people of Guinea-Bissau and call for the immediate and unconditional restoration of constitutional order, the safety and security of all those detained, and the full respect for the sanctity of democratic institutions,” it added.
The Federal Government also urged the military authorities to ensure the protection of all election observers still in the country on official assignment.
Nigeria issued a stern warning to the coup plotters, insisting that they will be held accountable for actions that risk plunging the country into turmoil and reversing hard-won democratic gains.
“Nigeria, as a key member of ECOWAS 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,” the statement concluded.
The government reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the promotion of democracy, peace, and stability across the African continent.
