Military Seizes Power In Guinea-Bissau, Goodluck Jonathan Among Observers Stranded

✍️ By Teju/ November 27, 2025/ 7:28am

Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has been confirmed safe but stranded in Guinea-Bissau after a sudden military takeover threw the West African nation into chaos. Jonathan had travelled to the country as part of the African Union, ECOWAS and West African Elders Forum observer mission for the presidential and parliamentary elections. But just as results were being awaited, soldiers announced they had seized power, shut the country’s borders and suspended all electoral activities, leaving Jonathan and dozens of other international observers unable to exit.

Gunfire had earlier been heard around key government buildings in Bissau, and the military, calling itself the High Military Command for the Restoration of National Security and Public Order, went on state television to declare full control of the state. The takeover came amid growing confusion after both incumbent President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and opposition candidate Fernando Dias da Costa prematurely claimed victory before official results were released. Embaló later told foreign media he had been deposed and was being held at military headquarters, while top electoral officials and political figures were reportedly detained.

With land, air and sea borders sealed, Jonathan and other observers have been forced to remain in the capital. His team has not issued a detailed statement, but sources close to him confirmed that he is safe, monitored and awaiting clearance to leave once conditions improve. Jonathan had spent the days before the coup visiting polling stations, engaging election officials and paying courtesy visits as part of his observer duties. Reports also suggest the military may be restricting internet connectivity as it tightens control of the country.

Guinea-Bissau’s long history of political instability makes the situation even more concerning, and the observer mission, led partly by Jonathan, has condemned the military action as a serious threat to democracy. They have called on the African Union and ECOWAS to intervene urgently, demanded the release of all detained officials, and urged citizens to remain calm while efforts continue to restore constitutional order. For now, Jonathan remains stuck in Guinea-Bissau, waiting for regional diplomacy to open a safe path out.