The House of Representatives has called for urgent diplomatic action to guarantee the safe return of former President Goodluck Jonathan, who remains stuck in Guinea-Bissau after soldiers took control of the country.
Lawmakers raised concerns that the political upheaval had placed Jonathan and other Nigerians in a precarious situation, warning that the security of a statesman on an international mission should not be taken lightly.
Legislators described the development as troubling, arguing that Jonathan’s position as a respected African diplomat made his protection a matter of national interest.
Several members insisted that Nigeria must act swiftly through established diplomatic networks to ensure his evacuation, stressing that the unfolding crisis could escalate if not handled promptly.
The concerns emerged during Thursday’s plenary, which shifted from discussions on economic hardship to the sudden military takeover in Guinea-Bissau.
Jonathan had travelled to the country as part of a joint African Union, ECOWAS and West African Elders Forum delegation tasked with observing last weekend’s presidential election when the coup disrupted political activities.
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu described the situation as urgent, warning that Nigeria “cannot afford to leave a former president vulnerable in a volatile environment.”
His position was echoed by House Leader Julius Ihonvbere, who explained to lawmakers that Jonathan was performing an international election-monitoring assignment when soldiers moved against the government.
Ihonvbere reminded the chamber of Jonathan’s extensive record as an election observer across Africa and beyond, recounting his roles in Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Liberia, Ghana, Pakistan, Tanzania and South Africa.
“This is someone who has represented Nigeria and the continent at the highest levels. Ensuring his safety is a national duty,” he said.
Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda also aligned with the call for action, adding that while Jonathan’s safety was paramount, the government must equally protect every Nigerian caught up in the crisis.
“The value we place on his life must apply to all our citizens, whether they are diplomats, observers or ordinary travellers,” he stated.
Following a voice vote, the House adopted the motion, urging the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic engagement and prioritise the safe return of all Nigerians affected by the situation in Guinea-Bissau.
The coup became public on Wednesday after General Denis N’Canha, head of the presidential military office, announced that a coalition of armed forces had seized control of the country.
He disclosed that the electoral process had been suspended, borders shut and political structures placed on hold just days after legislative and presidential polls.
Reports indicated that incumbent President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, who was tipped as the favourite to win the election, remained inside a building near the military headquarters alongside senior officials as the situation continued to unfold.
With tensions rising and international observers unsettled, the House insisted that Nigeria’s immediate priority must be safeguarding its citizens while engaging regional partners to restore stability in the troubled West African nation.