The Federal Government of Nigeria has condemned in strong terms the military coup in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, describing it as an unacceptable and unconstitutional change of government that threatens democratic stability in West Africa.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Nigeria expressed “profound dismay and deep concern” over the military insurrection, warning that it undermines democratic progress and violates the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, which prohibits unconstitutional access to power.
Nigeria said the coup represents a serious setback not only for Guinea-Bissau but for the entire sub-region, and called for the “immediate and unconditional restoration of constitutional order,” including guarantees for the safety of detained officials and protection of democratic institutions.
The statement also urged the coup leaders to ensure the safety of all election observers still in the country on official assignment.
Nigeria appealed for restraint from all parties involved, encouraging peaceful dialogue and respect for the will of the people as expressed through the electoral process and the announcement of results by the national electoral body.
It further cautioned that those responsible for the coup “will be held accountable” for actions that risk plunging Guinea-Bissau into instability and reversing its democratic gains.
As a prominent member of ECOWAS and the African Union, Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to working with regional and international partners to ensure a swift return to constitutional governance and to uphold democracy, peace, and stability across the continent.
