The Digest:
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has clarified his evacuation from coup-stricken Guinea-Bissau aboard an Ivorian aircraft, citing logistical ease and regional ties. According to his statement, both Nigerian and Ivorian leaders offered flights, but Abidjan’s proximity and linguistic affinity with the Lusophone nation expedited the landing clearance.
Key Points:
- Jonathan expressed gratitude to Presidents Tinubu and Ouattara for their coordination
- Both nations offered aircraft for his evacuation from Guinea-Bissau
- Ivorian approval came faster due to Francophone-Lusophone diplomatic relations
- Jonathan asked Nigeria to “not bother” after the Ivorian jet arrived
- The decision was framed as practical, not political
- The ex-President was there as a West African Elders Forum election observer
- He has since returned safely to Nigeria
Sources: The Nation, Punch
