The Federal Government of Nigeria (FG) has condemned the military coup in Guinea-Bissau, demanding the immediate restoration of democratic order in the West African nation.
The condemnation follows a military takeover on Wednesday, which suspended the electoral process and closed borders, three days after legislative and presidential elections.
In a statement released on Thursday by the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the Nigerian government described the incident as unfortunate and expressed dismay.
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The government articulated its condemnation in the “strongest possible terms,” characterising the military insurrection as an act that undermines the democratic progress, constitutional order, and stability not only of Guinea-Bissau but of the entire West African sub-region.
The government warned that the coup represents a “blatant violation of the fundamental principles of the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance,” which rejects any unconstitutional ascension to power.
The government called for the immediate and unconditional restoration of constitutional order, the safety and security of all those detained and full respect for democratic institutions.
The government urged all actors to “exercise utmost restraint, prioritise peaceful dialogue, and respect the will of the people of Guinea-Bissau” following the just-concluded election.
“We warn that those behind this act will be held accountable for their actions, which threaten to plunge the nation into chaos and reverse the hard-won gains of its democracy.”
The government promised to “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 coup was executed on Wednesday when General Denis N’Canha, head of the presidential military office, announced that a command composed of all armed forces branches was “taking over the leadership of the country until further notice.”
Incumbent President Umaro Embalo, who was favoured to win the recent election, was arrested.
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Election observers from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU) also condemned the development.
They stated that they “deplore this blatant attempt to disrupt the democratic process” and requested the AU and ECOWAS to take necessary steps to restore constitutional order.
