The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic efforts to ensure the safe return of former President Goodluck Jonathan, who remains stranded in Guinea-Bissau following a military coup.
Jonathan had travelled to the country as part of a joint African Union, ECOWAS and West African Elders Forum mission to observe last weekend’s presidential election when the coup erupted.
The issue was raised during Thursday’s plenary, which had initially centred on the hardships facing Nigerians, until Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu drew attention to what he described as “an urgent national concern.”
House Leader Julius Ihonvbere informed lawmakers that Jonathan, well-known for his extensive election observation roles across Africa and beyond, was on official international duty when the military takeover occurred.
“Currently, he is in Guinea-Bissau due to the coup,” Ihonvbere said, stressing that while the House was not debating the coup itself, Jonathan’s safety was “a matter of national importance.” He added that relevant government agencies were already working to facilitate his safe evacuation.
Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda also backed the motion, praising Jonathan’s global democratic credentials and insisting that all Nigerians caught in the crisis must be prioritised.
“The importance we attach to his life should also apply to every other Nigerian, whether at home or abroad,” Chinda said.
Following a voice vote, the House adopted the motion, calling on the Federal Government to step up diplomatic engagement to secure Jonathan’s return and ensure the safety of all Nigerians affected by the unrest in Guinea-Bissau.
