Diplomatic effort ensures swift evacuation of Nigerian elder statesman
Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has safely returned to Abuja, the nation’s capital, following his unexpected entanglement in the recent military coup that took place in Guinea-Bissau.
He was successfully evacuated after a tense period when military authorities in the West African nation seized control and suspended all electoral activities. The former President landed at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on Thursday, following a carefully coordinated airlift operation.
Jonathan thanks Tinubu and Ivorian president for rescue efforts
Speaking to journalists upon his return on Friday, Jonathan confirmed the emergency evacuation and expressed his profound gratitude to two African leaders. He specifically thanked Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and the President of Ivory Coast for their immediate and decisive actions in sending aircraft for his extraction. Jonathan noted that he typically avoids media attention, but felt compelled to speak directly to the Nigerian populace to convey his appreciation for their concern and empathy during the crisis. He stated that the level of national worry he witnessed reassured him of the strong bond he shares with the citizens.
Ivory Coast plane secured landing permit first
Jonathan revealed that both Nigeria and Ivory Coast had mobilized aircraft to lift him and his delegation from Bissau. He explained that due to the coup, obtaining a crucial landing permit in the volatile country became a key logistical hurdle. The former president noted the inherent relationship and geographical proximity between the Francophone countries, which allowed the Ivorian government to “penetrate their system” more quickly. This resulted in the Ivorian aircraft securing the necessary landing permission before the Nigerian plane could depart.
Nigeria asked to stand down evacuation after ivorian success
The former President’s account detailed how the swift diplomatic maneuvering of Ivory Coast led to their plane already being en route to Bissau. When the mission learned that the Nigerian aircraft was finally preparing to depart, they requested that President Tinubu’s administration stand down the evacuation effort. Jonathan confirmed that he told the Nigerian team “not to bother,” as the aircraft from Ivory Coast was already airborne and nearing its destination. He praised the quick and collaborative response from both West African leaders, showcasing regional solidarity in a time of crisis.
Context of the Guinea-Bissau coup ordeal
The circumstances that led to the former President’s being trapped were related to his current role as an eminent international figure focused on West African democracy. Jonathan had traveled to Guinea-Bissau as part of a joint election observer mission. This mission was deployed by the African Union (AU), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) to monitor the presidential and legislative elections. The political climate deteriorated quickly after the elections, culminating in the military takeover on Wednesday. The military authorities announced they had taken “full control,” suspended all electoral processes, and immediately closed the nation’s borders, effectively trapping Jonathan and other observers.
Show of empathy from Nigerians appreciated
Throughout his ordeal, Jonathan emphasized that the support and empathy he received from Nigerians were deeply felt. He relayed that information reaching him indicated that the “whole country was agitated, young and old,” showing concern for his safety regardless of their political or religious divides. This widespread show of concern served as a significant source of encouragement to him and his team while they navigated the rapidly developing crisis in Bissau. The successful extraction concluded a nervous few days for the country, which had been actively moving to ensure the safety of its former leader.
