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The House of Representatives on Thursday, November 27, 2025, urged the Federal Government to swiftly initiate diplomatic efforts to ensure the safe return of former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, who is currently in Guinea-Bissau amid the recent military coup there.
During plenary, originally addressing the challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu raised an urgent issue prompting the House’s focused attention. The floor was then handed to House Leader Rep. Julius Ihonvbere.
Ihonvbere informed the chamber that Jonathan, known for his peaceful concession in the 2015 elections, was on an international election-monitoring mission in Guinea-Bissau when the coup unfolded.
He highlighted Jonathan’s vast experience overseeing elections in multiple countries, including Zimbabwe, Liberia, Ghana, Mozambique, Pakistan, Tanzania, and South Africa, on behalf of ECOWAS, the Commonwealth, the African Union, and Nigeria.
“Currently, he is in Guinea-Bissau due to the coup,” Ihonvbere said, stressing that while the House was not debating the coup itself, Jonathan’s safety is “a matter of national importance.”
He added that government authorities are aware of the situation and taking steps to ensure his return.
Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda also supported the call, highlighting Jonathan’s democratic contributions and global engagement. He urged that national concern for safety should extend to all Nigerians abroad.
“The importance we attach to his life should also apply to every other Nigerian, whether at home or abroad,” Chinda said.
The House, according to reports, subsequently adopted a resolution by voice vote, urging the Federal Government to use all diplomatic channels to facilitate Jonathan’s safe return.
The resolution, Vanguard news noted, underscored that the safety of citizens, including former leaders, should remain a priority in Nigeria’s foreign and domestic policy.
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