Former President Goodluck Jonathan has explained the reason he returned to Nigeria aboard a jet from Côte d’Ivoire after unrest broke out in Guinea-Bissau. He was in the country as the head of the West African Elders Forum Election Observation Mission when gunfire was reported around key government buildings, raising fears of a possible coup.
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Jonathan said the tension in the country caused worry both locally and in Nigeria. He stated that people across different ages, religions, and political groups were anxious as news of the situation spread. He decided to speak publicly to appreciate Nigerians for their concern and support during the tense period.
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He revealed that President Bola Tinubu had already made plans to send a Nigerian aircraft to evacuate him and his team. At the same time, President Alassane Ouattara of Côte d’Ivoire also made arrangements to provide a jet for their safety. The Ivorian authorities, however, secured landing permission faster due to their closer ties and easier access within the region.
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Jonathan explained that the Ivorian aircraft was already on its way when approval was later granted for the Nigerian plane to take off. At that point, his team asked the Nigerian aircraft not to proceed since the Ivorian jet was already close.
He thanked President Tinubu and President Ouattara for their quick actions and also expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their prayers, concern, and support during the crisis. He assured Nigerians that he was safe and appreciated the unity shown by citizens during the incident.
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