Goodluck Jonathan is stranded in Guinea-Bissau after a military coup disrupted elections, leaving foreign observers unable to leave the country

Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan is currently stranded in Guinea-Bissau following a sudden military coup, officials and eyewitnesses confirmed on Wednesday.

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Jonathan had travelled to Bissau as part of an international team observing the national elections, but the situation deteriorated before he could return home.

Hundreds of foreign observers and visitors, including Jonathan, are now unable to leave as authorities closed all land, air, and sea borders.

The crisis erupted after both major presidential candidates, incumbent President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and challenger Fernando Dias, declared themselves winners, triggering political confusion and tension across the country.

A group of military officers, identifying themselves as the “High Military Command for the Restoration of Order,” appeared on national media to announce that they had taken total control of the government.

The officers declared the suspension of the election process “until further notice” and imposed an overnight curfew to maintain security.

Airport officials reported that many people rushed to the terminals upon hearing news of the coup, only to find that travel routes had been shut down.

The situation has left foreign nationals, including Jonathan, anxious and awaiting further updates on when it will be safe to depart.

The political upheaval has heightened fears for stability in Guinea-Bissau, with the international community closely monitoring developments.

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Observers are urging the military to ensure the safety of citizens and foreign delegations while clarifying a path forward for the electoral process.