The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to activate all diplomatic channels to secure the quick and safe return of Nigeria’s Former President, H.E. Dr. Goodluck Jonathan from crisis-torn Guinea-Bissau.
This resolution followed the adoption of a Matter of Urgent Public Importance moved by the House Majority Leader, Rt. Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, CON, who informed the Chamber that the former Nigerian Leader was in Guinea-Bissau as Head of the West African Elders Forum (WAEF), serving as part of an international observer mission.
“The government is aware and they are doing everything possible to get him back as quicky and safely as possible. Our goal is to urge the government not to relent in that effort, and to use all diplomatic means at its means to get our former President, a true democrat, back to Nigeria immediately.” the House Leader stated.
The motion, seconded by the Minority Leader, Rt. Hon. Kingsley Chinda (PDP, Rivers), was unanimously adopted during the House’s ongoing Special Session on National Security, now in its third day.
Former President Jonathan and several high-level dignitaries were stranded after the military announced a takeover on Wednesday, grounding all flights and restricting movement in and out of Guinea-Bissau. The development occurred on the eve of the planned announcement of results from Sunday’s highly contested presidential election.
The House reaffirmed that safeguarding the lives of all citizens, at home and abroad, remains a matter of urgent national priority and urged the Executive to act without delay.
