By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned the recent military coup in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, labeling it a blatant violation of regional democratic principles and a threat to West African stability.
In a press release issued on Thursday, the Nigerian government expressed “profound dismay” over the military insurrection that led to an unconstitutional change of government.
It described the coup as an action that undermines democratic progress and constitutional order in Guinea-Bissau and the wider sub-region.
The statement called for the “immediate and unconditional restoration of constitutional order,” and demanded the safety and security of all detained persons.
It also urged respect for the country’s democratic institutions.
Nigeria specifically called on the new authorities in Guinea-Bissau to guarantee the safety of all election observers still in the country.
It advised all actors to exercise restraint, prioritize peaceful dialogue, and respect the will of the people as expressed through their votes and the official election results.
The warning was clear: those responsible for the coup “will be held accountable for their actions, which threaten to plunge the nation into chaos.”
As a key member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union, Nigeria pledged to work with regional and international partners to “take all necessary measures” to ensure a swift return to constitutional governance in Guinea-Bissau.