President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government has broken its silence on Wednesday’s military coup in Guinea-Bissau.

The federal government described the development as a grave setback to democratic governance in the West African sub-region.

In a statement issued on Thursday by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Nigeria called for utmost restraint among all actors involved and urged a swift return to constitutional order.

According to the ministry, Nigeria views the coup as an “unconstitutional change of government” that violates the principles of the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, which prohibits access to power through illegitimate means.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria has learned with profound dismay and deep concern the unfortunate military coup which has led to an unconstitutional change of government in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau,” the statement read.

Nigeria said it “strongly condemns” the military insurrection, warning that it undermines democratic progress and threatens regional stability.

“We stand in solidarity with the people of Guinea-Bissau and call for the immediate and unconditional restoration of constitutional order, the safety and security of all those detained, and full respect for democratic institutions,” the ministry stated.

The government also urged the coup leaders to ensure the safety of election observers still in the country and to allow the electoral commission to conclude its work and announce the final results.

Reiterating its commitment to democratic values, Nigeria warned that those responsible for the coup would be held accountable for actions capable of plunging the nation into chaos and reversing democratic gains.

Nigeria further noted that, as a key member of ECOWAS and the African Union, it would work with regional and international partners to ensure a swift return to stability and constitutional rule in Guinea-Bissau.

“We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the promotion of democracy, peace, and stability across the African continent,” the statement added. (TRIBUNE)