Nigerian embassy in Guinea-Bissau has taken in Fernando Dias da Costa, the country’s opposition presidential contender, following reports that his safety is at risk.
His asylum request was granted days after soldiers in Guinea-Bissau announced a takeover, plunging the country into uncertainty shortly after its presidential poll.
The political atmosphere had already been heated as President Umaro Embaló and his rival, da Costa, each claimed victory ahead of the electoral commission’s official declaration.
Nigeria, reacting to the unfolding events, expressed worry over the coup and demanded a prompt return to constitutional rule.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also assured that Abuja would collaborate with partners to restore calm and stability.
Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar, in a correspondence to ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray, revealed that President Bola Tinubu authorised da Costa’s protection inside the Nigerian mission in Bissau, citing concerns over threats to his life.
“In this regard, it would be appreciated if you would kindly mandate the ECOWAS Stabilization Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau (ESSMGB) to provide him protection and security while in the premises of the Nigerian embassy,” the letter said.
Tuggar’s media aide, Alkasim Abdulkadir, later verified the letter, saying, “The decision of the Federal Government of Nigeria to grant asylum and provide protection to Mr. Fernando Dia Da Costa falls squarely within Nigeria’s sovereign responsibility and longstanding commitment to regional peace, stability, and democratic governance.”
He noted that Nigeria’s action was intended to prevent rising tensions and help stabilise Guinea-Bissau and the wider ECOWAS region.
Following the coup, ECOWAS convened an emergency virtual meeting and subsequently suspended Guinea-Bissau from the regional body until constitutional governance is restored.
