Nigeria Provides Emergency Protection for Guinea-Bissau Presidential Candidate Following Military Coup

The Nigerian government has taken decisive action to ensure the safety of Guinea-Bissau presidential candidate Fernando Dias da Costa amid looming threats to his life. This security measure comes in the wake of a military coup that occurred just hours before the highly anticipated announcement of the 23 November 2025 election results.

Dias, the principal opposition candidate challenging incumbent President Umaro Embaló, is currently under protective custody at the Nigerian Embassy in Guinea-Bissau. This decision received the approval of President Bola Tinubu, reflecting Nigeria’s commitment to regional stability and the safeguarding of democratic processes.

Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has formally requested that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Stabilisation Support Mission bolster security for Dias. This move underscores a collective responsibility among West African nations to protect democracy in the region, particularly in light of the escalating tensions following the coup.

The military’s takeover has sparked widespread condemnation from various leaders throughout West Africa. Notable figures such as former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan and Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko have labeled the coup as a sham designed to obstruct the announcement of election results and undermine the democratic will of the people.

This unfolding situation in Guinea-Bissau highlights the fragile state of democracy in parts of West Africa, where military interventions pose a recurring threat to electoral processes and governance. As Fernando Dias da Costa seeks to navigate these tumultuous waters, the support from Nigeria and ECOWAS may prove pivotal in restoring order and maintaining the integrity of the electoral system.

The developments in Guinea-Bissau not only draw attention to the country’s political struggles but also serve as an urgent reminder of the importance of international solidarity in upholding democratic values across the continent. As the situation evolves, the international community remains watchful, advocating for a return to stability and a reaffirmation of democratic norms.

With Dias protected, the focus now shifts to how regional powers and international organizations will respond to this critical juncture, as calls for dialogue and peaceful resolution gain momentum in the face of escalating unrest.

By Omer Aden
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.